Comenius Scholar Highlight: Annie Hotz '27

In her Comenius Project, The Impact of Classroom Environments on Elementary Students’ Learning and Well-Being: Creating the Most Effective Learning Spaces, Annie Hotz '27 explored how classroom design can influence elementary students’ academic performance and emotional well-being. Through extensive research, she examined how teachers can create learning environments that support student success both academically and emotionally.

Her research focused on five key elements of classroom design: color theory, seating arrangements, design and decoration, lighting, and accessibility. To deepen her understanding of these topics, Annie collaborated with Lower School teachers, incorporating their insights and experiences into her research. Through this process, she explored how thoughtful classroom design can help create effective, engaging, and supportive learning spaces for students.

Using her findings, Annie designed a practical pamphlet to help educators apply research-based strategies when creating and organizing their classrooms. The resource serves as a guide for teachers seeking to enhance student learning experiences through intentional classroom design.

Through this project, Annie connected her passion for education with her interest in design while investigating how the environments around us shape learning and development. Her work highlights the important role that physical spaces play in supporting student growth and well-being, providing valuable insights for educators and school communities alike.