Architecture in Action: Design DaysFree architecture and design experiences for Maryland K–12 schools.
- 5 Schools Selected Statewide
- Climate + Sustainability focus
- Equity Driven
Architecture in Action: Design Days in Maryland Schools is a statewide K–12 activation led by AIA Maryland during Architecture Week 2026 (April 12–18). The program connects students with practicing architects through hands-on classroom experiences, design challenges, and curated educational resources focused on sustainability, equity, and the built environment. Classes are left with books and materials to keep the learning going.
This pilot initiative will reach five Maryland schools, prioritizing Title I and historically underrepresented communities, and establish a scalable model for future statewide and national outreach.
How Design Days Works in your School
- Hands-on design, literacy, and STEAM classroom experiences delivered as a one‑day (or short) program.
- Curriculum‑aligned, classroom‑ready activities intended to fit into what teachers already do (not “extra work”).
- Books and resources that stay in the school after the program so teachers and students can continue using them.
- A structure that supports all educators, with no prior architecture experience required.
- A statewide grant model where all K–12 schools are eligible to apply, with a clear application window (e.g., open until March 15).
Who Can Apply and How?
Application Window: February 10th – March 15th
Schools Selected: March 2026
Eligible applicants:
Maryland K–12 educators
Public, private, and charter schools
Priority given to:
Title I schools
Geographic diversity
Underrepresented student populations
TIMELINE
December 2025 – Book Drive Launch
February 10th – March 15th – Applications Open
March 25, 2026 – School Selection & Winners Contacted
April 14–18, 2026 – Design Days During Architecture Week
April–June 2026 – Storytelling & Reporting