The design of learning environments provides a unique opportunity to create places that support the social, emotional and educational needs of students and the needs of 21st century education. We believe that school buildings play an integral role in the success of the educational process and the ability of institutions to successfully live out their vision for instructional excellence and student development. JCJ’s robust process of discovery, programming, stakeholder engagement and consensus building is critical to creating the appropriate project roadmap – one that will enable Heads of Schools and Business Officers the information and understanding to work with their constituents and the wider school community. The rigor with which we undertake planning and project formulation is complimented by a deep understanding of both design and implementation. Our transparent and inclusive design process promotes communication, decision making and our project management process brings resolution and maintains critical project controls.

The firm’s work includes master planning and project feasibility, development of donor outreach materials, full architectural and interior design services. Projects have ranged in scope from minor facility upgrades in an “on-call/house doctor” role to new construction md renovation projects; they have included early childhood through grade 12, arts, academic, library and special needs programs.

JCJ has participated on the local and national level with organizations that provide resources for those who plan, design and operate schools. These organizations vary widely but all are committed to advancing the excellence in student achievement: the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS); the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut Associations for Independent Schools (NYAIS, NJAIS, CTAIS), the National Business Officers Association (NBOA), the American Institute for Architects Committee on Architecture for Education (AIA CAE), the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE). JCJ Architecture also contributes to the dialogue on the specific needs of independent schools through the firm’s special series called “The Education Roundtable.” By bringing together leaders from the New Jersey, New York and Connecticut independent school community, we engage in conversation and problem solving about relevant issues and topics. Invitees include heads of school, trustees, facilities directors, admissions directors and others. To date, the conversations have included topics such as “Learning Environments for the Next Century and Beyond”, “Nipping at your Heels: The Public and Charter School Threat”, “Green Tomorrow: The Elephant in the Room?” and “Civic Responsibility; The Future of Public Awareness.” At each event, the firm has brought together a dynamic group of individuals that have engaged in a spirited dialogue about their struggles and successes. The feedback we have received at these events convinces us that providing a place to raise these topics and promote discussion provides value to the independent school community and its leaders.