Townline Elementary School tries brain-based learning

Parents expect mobile artwork hanging from the ceilings of their children's classroom, stories about their children's summer vacations plastered to the walls and miniature models of ships and towns cluttering tables.

But less and less of that is prominent at the Vernon Hills Townline Elementary School, where brain-based learning is taking over. Educators there believe less clutter, natural lighting and fewer color schemes make the classroom more peaceful and calm for children, and, while not scientifically proven, an environment that is more conducive to learning, said Principal Victoria Kieffer.

"I have gone from hanging artwork floor to ceiling, covering every inch of wall space, student work all over the bulletin boards to nothing hanging from the ceiling and displays that go up during our studies and are removed when we are finished.

"My uncluttered, well-designed room has improved student performance and enjoyment," kindergarten teacher Mimi Batson said.

"I chose two colors for the classroom and one pattern, which research suggests minimizes children being over stimulated. I've seen a calming effect on the children," the veteran teacher said.

"Touches like soft lighting from lamps, plants, family photos, framed inspirational quotes, curtains covering shelving and windows makes for a very welcoming, friendly and clutter-free environment."

For the past two years, Townline has been transforming each grade level into a brain-based learning environment, Kieffer said. Subtle changes have taken place in kindergarten through second grade, with the rest of the grades getting on board in upcoming years.

There are plants displayed throughout classrooms and different textures can be found in a woven place mat or furry rug. Teachers select a two-color scheme and create borders, curtains and place mats to support the theme.

The room is divided into different sections, with a reading nook, computer station, and meeting tables for group work. Teachers were encouraged to remove posters on the walls and post only the lesson of the moment for student learning rather than have all the walls covered with materials that might not be relevant at that moment in time.

"Teachers say students are more relaxed, more comfortable. Because of fewer distractions, teachers find that students tend to be more focused on critical learning elements," Kieffer said.

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