Maplewood Middle School
In 1970, Maplewood middle school was constructed. Twenty years later, six classrooms and a Commons were added to the south side of the school. These renovations, however, failed to remedy the detrimental lack of natural light within the building or the overcrowded halls. 

 

For nearly 60 years, the windowless classrooms have been likened to prison cells. However, in 2025, the present Maplewood building will be demolished. Its replacement will be a modern two-building structure, one to house fifth and sixth grades, and the other seventh and eighth. In a great stride towards climate justice, the new Maplewood intermediate and middle school will be the state’s second Zero Net Energy school, meaning that the amount of greenhouse gasses used, such as CO2, will equate to the amount of renewable energy generated, thereby offsetting the adverse effects of greenhouse gas consumption. In addition to its friendliness to the environment, the new building features a plethora of windows, providing much-needed natural light, and spacious hallways.