Mundo Verde is a public charter school in D.C. that focuses on teaching complex sustainability issues through hands-on, real world “expeditions”. Naturally, its new building—formerly a derelict urban site—was designed as a living framework for the curriculum.
Mundo Verde aims to foster high levels of academic achievement among a diverse group of students by preparing them to be successful and compassionate global stewards of their communities.
As part of the new design, material, system and resource efficiencies are measured and monitored; stormwater is captured and repurposed; indigenous plantings support migratory insects and birds; and nutrition and wellness are realized via a garden-to-plate-to-compost food education initiative.
With a project cost of just $15 million, the LEED Gold and Platinum-certified campus proves that green schools can be as cost-effective as they are energy efficient.
In 2011 Mundo Verde opened its doors in commercial space on the 2nd floor of a Dupont Circle office building. With only 122 children, the management crowded the tiny start-up space and had to be creative and resourceful to maximize space and make the most of our surroundings, exploring local parks and surrounding neighborhoods.
Mundo Verde strives to make learning fun and prepare students to be global citizens and stewards of our environment. The curriculum emphasizes interactive, hands-on, project-based learning that nurtures students’ engagement and motivation for life-long learning.
According to architectureanddesign.com.au; mundoverdepcs.org. Source of photos: internet
