#United States #Newark #Architecture Week #Newark School #Kelli Glasgow

Newark Students Experience a Transformative Architecture Week

In a remarkable initiative to inspire young minds, the Newark School of Architecture & Interior Design (NSAID) participated in a hands-on design event during Architecture Week, bridging the gap between education and industry. Organized by Newark Public Schools in collaboration with AIA Newark Suburban Architects, this event allowed students to engage directly with professionals, educators, and mentors, fostering an enriching learning environment.

On April 20, 2026, approximately 30 students were immersed in a unique experience that involved designing and constructing scale models of various building types including retail and medical facilities. Under the guidance of licensed architects and college students from institutions such as NJIT, Kean University, and Union College, the ninth graders collaborated in teams to bring their ideas to life.

Kelli Glasgow, President of AIA Newark Suburban Architects and an Associate Principal at DIGroupArchitecture, emphasized the event's purpose: “As architects, we don’t work alone. We collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve together. This experience aims to give students a real sense of the architectural process while helping them envision themselves in this profession.” The students engaged in the iterative process of architectural design, learning to overcome challenges collectively and reflect on their teamwork outcomes.

This initiative aligns with Superintendent León's vision of career-connected learning through the high school redesign strategy initiated by the Newark Public Schools. By involving industry professionals, the program aims to provide students with mentorship opportunities, broaden their knowledge, and pave paths towards successful futures. “This is exactly the kind of real-world experience we want to provide our students,” Superintendent León stated, highlighting the importance of direct interaction with the architecture field.

As students created multiple innovative models, they developed critical design and presentation skills. Each classroom’s work culminated in presentations, where students shared their design processes, choices made, and the challenges faced. Their reflections included insights into collaborative skills and the importance of teamwork in architecture—key competencies for future professionals.

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council recognized the significance of such partnerships, stating, “Our students are learning about architecture as well as building connections, developing real-world skills, and witnessing the vast opportunities that lie ahead in their careers.” Such experiences are crucial for preparing students to become leaders in the ever-evolving workforce.

Principal Soraia Mendes of NSAID noted, “It's a powerful example of how partnerships can expand what's possible for our students.” By engaging in real-world design experiences, students could connect theoretical knowledge to practical application, thus enhancing their learning journey. The effort not only showcases the commitment to career and technical education emphasized in Newark’s strategic plan, The Next Decade 2020–30, but also promotes the importance of fostering strong industry partnerships.

Ultimately, Architecture Week provided students with not only innovative design experience but also a clearer vision of their future in architecture and the construction industry. This event underscores the transformative power of hands-on experiences that blend education and industry to prepare students for bright futures in the built environment.