This elementary magnet school is the first designed and built public school to specifically reflect the Multiple Intelligence Educational theories of Harvard University’s Dr. Howard Gardner.

The distinctive architecture of the school supports the mission of Multiple Intelligences learning. Classrooms are designed to promote learning in each of the intelligences that they represent: spacious classrooms for Spatial and Bodily Kinesthetic Intelligence, and intimate spaces for Intrapersonal Intelligence. All classrooms access outdoor “life gardens” to support learning in the Naturalistic Intelligence. An Early Childhood Education Center, Wellness Center, Faculty Center and a Family Resource Center complete the facilities of this school.

The design fosters community, positive social interaction and serendipitous encounters. The main entrance opens immediately into the “Agora”, or central gathering place of the school. Open stairways and color-tinted light shafts connect the upper and lower levels of the classrooms. Each wing culminates in a small dining area and outdoor patio.

University of Hartford Magnet School
Hartford, Connecticut
City of Hartford
Completed August 2002