During the AIA National Convention in Boston, Michael Spain had the wonderful opportunity to join fellow members of the AIA’s Integrating Design Education through Architecture (IDEA) Advisory Group for three exciting days of youth-focused design programming. It was an inspiring experience, filled with creativity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to expanding the reach of K–12 design education.

The journey began with the continuation of an Architecture Week Design Challenge of Boston’s Seaport Square. 42 local high school students over two sessions teamed up with architects and designers from across the country to envision and create public spaces designed with youth in mind. Using sketching and modeling techniques, these talented students brought their ideas to life and proudly shared their work with visiting conference attendees.

The momentum carried into day two, where 25 enthusiastic fifth graders from the Holmes Innovation School were welcome. Through a series of hands-on design activities including sketching, animal habitat placemaking, LEGO building exercises, and a neighborhood walking tour, students explored their environment and unlocked their imaginations in meaningful ways.

To wrap up our programming, IDEA Advisory Group hosted an engaging panel discussion focused on the success of high school internship programs in design. K–12 advocates shared firsthand stories of impact, followed by lively breakout sessions where attendees exchanged ideas, challenges, and next steps.

The enthusiasm and energy witnessed reaffirm that K–12 design education is not only growing it’s thriving and making an impact across the nation and in the city of Philadelphia. Through the work of the AIA’s IDEA Advisory Group and other aligned initiatives, we’re building momentum to ensure that more young people see themselves as future designers, architects, and creative problem-solvers.