Windows to Learning

When our school was built, it was specifically designed to not have an excessive number of windows. The design was thought to be more energy efficient. 

According to A History of School Design and its Indoor Environmental Standards, 1900 to Today, “an early model for the standard adequate classroom… drawn up by Horace Mann… called for… windows on two sides of the room, and a variety of other necessary amenities.” This was prior to central heating and air conditioning. School design models have changed over the years and energy efficiency took precedence over natural light and outside air. By 1989 when Salem opened its doors, large and/or abundant windows were no longer a standard school design feature. 

“Whenever I’m in a class without windows, it doesn’t feel like a classroom. It feels like I’m in a brick box,” said senior Steel Mcleoud.  

Though it may not matter to some people, having windows in a classroom can be incredibly important. It allows natural light to enter the room, makes classrooms feel more open, and provides a view of the outdoors which is proven to reduce stress, diminish anxiety, and improve moods in general. 

Not only that, but being exposed to light gives a healthy amount of serotonin which has been proven to positively impact people’s moods.

“When it comes to my mood, I prefer windows in a classroom. It feels more peaceful,” said freshman John Diwa.

In a survey of 94 students on various grade levels administered by The SunDevil Times, 39.4% reported that their academics were not impacted by whether their classroom has windows. 56.4% reported that they feel like windows help them be more successful academically, and 4.3% reported that windowless classrooms are better for their academics. 

Eighty five percent of students prefer classrooms with windows. 

Newer Virginia Beach City Public schools are nearly all windows. The new Kellam for example. There is nothing we can do about our building’s lack of windows, but what we’ve learned suggests that students might want to consider studying in rooms with windows and otherwise seeking out natural light when possible before and after school.