BASIS Independent McLean’s staff. Photo Contributed
More than 40 teachers and nearly 300 DC-area students were welcomed by Sean Aiken, head of school of BASIS Independent McLean, who opened the doors to Tysons Corner’s first prek-12 school. Located at 8000 Jones Branch Drive in McLean, the 120,000 square-foot private school designed by Gilbane Perkins Eastman Design has more than 23 classrooms, as well as a gymnasium, chemistry, biology and physics laboratories, demonstration and reading rooms, full-service cafeteria and indoor and outdoor play areas. For more information, go to http://mclean.basisindependent.com or call 703.854.1253.
Classroom size can vary, but averages around 17 students. In addition to the traditional classrooms, BASIS Independent McLean offers an industrial arts room, a theater, music rooms and art rooms connected by a kiln. Designed to be energy-efficient, every BASIS Independent McLean classroom has its own climate control, with programmable light settings, while natural light prevails in the school with its four-story glass arch atrium and five additional light wells in the Great Hall (cafeteria area) that illuminate natural light in classrooms as well. The cafeteria is often referred to as the Great Hall, and includes round tables, farm tables, café seating and a recreation room. Several breakout and demonstration areas are throughout the school for simulations, collaboration, and lab equipment. Science labs provide lecture space and experiment space, along with fume hoods and demonstration areas. A reading room has dedicated study lounges and conference rooms, while the BASIS Independent McLean gym is two stories with natural light, and visibility into college counseling and art gallery spaces. The early childhood (preK-K) area has its own entrance and a multi-purpose atrium with indoor and outdoor play areas, and specially designed classrooms for younger students.
"We’re thrilled to see all the students and begin a new chapter of education in Tysons Corner,” said Sean Aiken, head of school of BASIS Independent McLean, McLean. “The school’s design and classrooms are reflective of our teaching and education philosophy, providing engaging tools, spaces and environments that nurture, invite and challenge our students in learning,” said Aiken.
For more information, visit http://mclean.basisindependent.com.