Where Design Meets Education: Project Architect Andreia Rossato Participates in ‘Principal for a Day’

Project Architect Andreia Rossato recently participated as Principal for a Day as part of Fort Wayne Community Schools’ community-wide initiative, where local residents visited area schools and immersed themselves in the fabric of school life. Andreia served as Principal for a Day at Blackhawk Middle School—a unique opportunity for community members to experience what school administrators are responsible for within educational environments. For Andreia, it was an inspiring experience both personally and professionally.

“This morning as Principal for a Day at Blackhawk was truly an amazing experience! I really enjoyed observing the school in action, seeing the students’ pride in their environment was inspiring,” Andreia shared. Her day began with an appearance on Eagle Eyes News, a student-produced morning broadcast that reaches every classroom. Following that, she was given a tour by three Student Ambassadors and Principal Justin Hoering, all while taking in the recent renovations Elevatus completed at the school. She observed how these spaces are being used to foster learning and collaboration.

Andreia also joined two Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions with math teachers, gaining insight into how educators work together to enhance instruction and collaboration. Shortly after, she visited several 6th-grade classrooms, offering a glimpse into the engaging lessons and vibrant learning taking place at Blackhawk Middle School. To conclude her experience, Andreia observed the operations of the cafeteria during 7th-grade lunch—a behind-the-scenes look at how the school efficiently serves so many students.

“Overall, it was an inspiring and eye-opening experience, both professionally and personally. I left with a deeper appreciation for the school community and how design supports learning every day,” Andreia reflected.

At Elevatus Architecture, we believe that design goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating environments that empower students and educators. Experiences like these remind us why we do what we do: to shape spaces that make a difference in the lives of learners and the communities they call home.