In the realm of education, every detail matters – even down to the desks students use. Classroom desks play a crucial role in creating an environment conducive to learning, impacting everything from comfort and ergonomics to collaboration and productivity. Learn more about the world of classroom desks, including the impact a classroom seating arrangement has on student outcomes, the different types of school desks available and considerations for choosing the right desking solution for your teachers’ and students’ workspaces below. 

How Does Classroom Desking Affect Learning Outcomes? 

Classroom desking and seating arrangements exert a profound influence on the student learning environment and learning outcomes. Some of the most significant areas that are impacted by classroom desking include the following: 

• Engagement, collaboration and participation – Arranging desks for small group discussions or pair work encourages interaction and active participation. Flexible seating promotes teamwork, peer-to-peer learning and communication skills. Plus, strategic desk placement enhances opportunities for personalized support and feedback. 

• Comfort, focus and academic performance – Well-designed and ergonomically arranged desks promote comfort, reduce distractions and improve focus. Optimal desk arrangements improve focus, leading to better retention and academic performance. Efficient seating arrangements facilitate seamless transitions, maximizing class time. Additionally, providing adequate spacing with desking solutions can enhance student comfort. 

• Classroom management – Optimal desk arrangements help teachers maintain visual contact with students for better management and behavior monitoring. Plus, thoughtful arrangements minimize distractions, allowing smoother transitions between activities. 

• Social and emotional development – Strategic seating encourages positive social relationships and a sense of belonging, promoting emotional well-being and reducing feelings of isolation. 

In essence, classroom desking and seating arrangements are not merely logistical considerations – they are powerful tools that shape the learning experience and contribute to the overall success and well-being of students.  

What’s the Difference Between a Traditional and Modern Classroom Design? 

There are many different types of classroom designs, but they typically fall into three categories: traditional, modern and a blend of both.  

Traditional classroom arrangements, where students sit in rows of desks and face the teacher or whiteboard, have their place and can be successful for teacher-centered instruction and individual work. However, more recently, many schools are incorporating modern classroom designs, which embrace dynamic and flexible configurations, to promote student-centered learning and collaboration. Each type of design has pros and cons to consider.  

For younger students, such as elementary-aged children, arrangements often incorporate clusters of desks conducive to group activities and hands-on learning experiences, fostering social interaction and peer engagement. Conversely, older students, particularly in secondary education, may benefit from a blend of traditional and modern seating arrangements, allowing for both independent study and collaborative projects.  

Ergonomic considerations are crucial across all age groups, with adjustable desks and chairs accommodating diverse student needs and promoting physical comfort. By carefully tailoring desking and seating arrangements to suit the developmental stages and learning styles of students, educators can create environments that optimize engagement, collaboration and academic achievement. 

What Are the Different Types of Desks Used in Classrooms?  

Whether you’re outfitting a new school or replacing your school’s old student desks, you have many options for the workstations you choose for students. Before you make your final decision, you determine what students in that classroom will need. You may find that not every class will benefit from the same type of desk. These are the most common types of classroom desks and some benefits to each.  

Open Front Desks 

Simple but versatile open front desks are the most popular options for elementary classrooms. These desks have a book box underneath the work surface facing the user so reading materials and school supplies are easily accessible.  

Student Chair Desks 

A student chair desk is a desk with a chair attached to it. The open book box is typically built underneath the chair in these workstations, but many options do not come with any book box at all. This type of desk is ideal for high school and university settings where the student is not using the same desk all day and doesn’t need a large storage space. What’s more, this style of desk can help keep classrooms tidy, as the chairs and desks stay aligned.  

Collaborative Table Desks 

If you’re teaching in a classroom that does a lot of collaborative work, you’ll want some modular desks that can be easily pushed together and pulled apart. These desks are typically made in unique shapes that make them easy to fit together for use in team exercises, and they do not usually include storage. Some examples of collaborative learning desk shapes include: 

• Delta desks – With their triangular configuration, delta desks are perfect for collaborative endeavors, easily arranged into pods for group work or separated for focused study. 

• Petal desks – Resembling the petals of a flower when clustered together, petal desks can foster a sense of cohesion and cooperation. 

• Trapezoid desks – Forming circles when combined, trapezoid desks are ideal for projects requiring face-to-face interaction. 

Collaborative desks are rapidly growing in popularity and are commonly used in various school settings ranging from grade school to university classrooms. 

Standing and Adjustable-Height Desks 

Standing desks and adjustable-height desks are another growing trend in classroom design. Studies have shown that sitting for prolonged periods can lead to many health risks in adults, so it only makes sense to encourage our children toward a more active lifestyle by incorporating standing into the classroom. Some desks even have built-in footrest bars that swing so young students can release energy during lessons.  

Teacher Desks 

Teacher desks serve as a central hub for educators, providing a space for organization, preparation, and administrative tasks within the classroom. These desks not only offer a place for teachers to keep materials and resources readily accessible but also serve as a focal point for instruction and interaction with students. There are various types of teacher desks to suit different needs and preferences.  

Traditional teacher desks typically feature ample storage space, drawers and a large work surface. Modern alternatives include standing desks for ergonomic support and mobility, as well as compact desks designed for smaller classrooms or collaborative teaching environments. Some educators opt for minimalist designs or adjustable-height desks to accommodate diverse teaching styles and preferences. Regardless of the type, teacher desks play a vital role in facilitating effective teaching and learning experiences. 

Can I Mix and Match Different Types of Classroom Desks?  

Mixing and matching different types of classroom desks can be a creative and practical way to accommodate various learning styles and activities. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind: 

1. Purpose – Determine the primary activities that will take place in your classroom. For example, if you plan to incorporate group work, you might want to have some desks that allow for easy collaboration, such as round tables or desks with movable chairs. 

2. Flexibility – Opt for desks that can easily be rearranged or combined to accommodate different teaching methods and activities. Adjustable-height desks, modular desks or lightweight tables and chairs can offer this flexibility. 

3. Comfort – Consider the comfort of your students. Different types of desks may be more suitable for different body types and preferences. Providing a variety of options, such as traditional desks, standing desks or ergonomic school chairs, can help ensure that all students are comfortable and able to focus on their work. 

4. Space – Take into account the layout and size of your classroom. Choose desks that can maximize the available space and allow for smooth traffic flow. Be sure to take other classroom furniture into consideration when evaluating space. If you need cubbies or lockers within your space, you will need to carefully measure to ensure proper fit and avoid overcrowding.  

5. Aesthetics – While functionality is key, also consider the visual appeal of your classroom. Mixing and matching desks with different designs, colors and materials can create an engaging and dynamic learning environment.  

By carefully considering these factors, you can create a classroom setup that promotes collaboration, flexibility and comfort, ultimately enhancing the learning experience for your students. 

Fuel Academic Success With the Right Classroom Desks 

In the pursuit of an optimal learning environment, every aspect of classroom furniture chosen, including what types of classroom desks are used, holds significance. Classroom desking plays a multifaceted role, influencing everything from student engagement and collaboration to comfort and academic performance.  

By understanding the profound impact of classroom seating arrangements on learning outcomes, educators can tailor their environments to foster active participation, effective collaboration and individualized learning experiences. From traditional to modern designs, there's a spectrum of desk options to suit various educational settings and preferences.  

Through thoughtful consideration of purpose, flexibility, comfort, space and aesthetics, schools can create dynamic and inclusive learning spaces that inspire curiosity, engagement and academic success.

Office Design for Startups

Launching your startup may be one of your most difficult ventures. There are so many things to consider when getting ready to open for business, and selecting the right office furniture is not usually high on what is probably a very long to-do list. Many startups begin by offering their employees folding chairs to sit in, shabby tables to work on, and little to no décor to look at. Of course, this lack of style and function is always due to a lack of money. 

Startups rarely have the extra cash to spring for genuine leather office chairs, wood veneer executive desks, or one-of-a-kind artwork. But what happens when you need to impress business investors? When you want to attract new employees to work for your company? When you have clients come in for a meeting? Your office design can make more of a difference than you think.

Make It Yours

Branding is hugely important for the success of any business, and branding your office to fit with your identity will help inspire employees and impress investors and customers. There are plenty of ways to bring branding into your workplace, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive process. Some of the most affordable ways to reel in your identity are to paint the walls your brand colors, purchase some coffee mugs with your logo for your employees, and buy office furniture in a style that matches your business goals. If you’re starting a new attorney’s office, you may want desks and bookcases with a traditional look. If you’re starting a trendy marketing firm, you may choose something more modern. Take the identity you want people to associate with your brand and incorporate it into every aspect of your office design.

Make It Functional

What makes furniture functional varies greatly from one company to the next because every business operates a little differently. If you and your employees work in an environment that requires constant collaboration between coworkers, you may want to consider creating an open-office floor plan that facilitates open communication without the barriers that cubicle walls put up. However, if your business is in an industry requiring quiet concentration, you may want to add more private offices to the area. For most companies, a mix of openness and privacy is best.

Also consider the versatility of your office furniture. Adding mobile filing cabinets with padded tops that can be used as both storage and chairs is a great way to save space and cash in a startup office. Desks with built-in storage often take up less floor space than a table desk that needs an additional cabinet added to the workspace. Selecting furniture that serves multiple purposes is a great way to save room in a small area and a great way to save money.

Make It Comfortable

If your employees can’t stay comfortable at work, they aren’t likely to be very productive or even stay with your company for long. Although metal folding chairs may be the most economical choice, they won’t be good for your business in the long run. Instead, equip your workstations with affordable ergonomic chairs, pull-out keyboard trays, adjustable-height monitor stands, and anything else that will make your employees’ 8-hour day more enjoyable. 

Along with the right furniture, make an effort to allow employees to take a break now and then. We know you’ve got a lot of work to get done, but a short walk or breath of fresh air allows employees to return from their mental break with a renewed sense of creativity and eagerness to get the job done.

Make It Fun

Last but not least, take measures to make your new business a fun place to be for employees, investors, clients, and yourself. No one wants to come to work every day only to sit at his or her computer without any human interaction or anything to look at other than black text on a white screen. Adding pops of color to your office and allowing employees to decorate their desks with family photos and memorabilia will give them the little boost of inspiration they need to be effective workers.

All About Fireproof File Cabinets

Are your school's documents protected from disaster? A surprising number of school employees believe that a basic metal filing cabinet will protect student records in the event of a fire. Still, the reality is that your physical paperwork won't last long in the wake of a disaster. Keep your school's most sensitive documents safe by incorporating fireproof file cabinets into your office setup.

What Do Fireproof Filing Cabinets Protect Against?

The obvious answer here is, of course, fire. Fireproof filing cabinets are tested to withstand extreme heat, and options that can protect your files from 1700-degree flames for up to a full hour are not uncommon. 

In addition to protection from fire damage, most fireproof files can withstand damage caused by a 30-foot drop, which may come in handy a serious fire. 

Finally, you know those sprinkler systems will engage at the first sign of a blaze. Fireproof filing cabinets are built to keep the unit tight and secure, meaning your important documents won't fall victim to the water damage caused by sprinkler systems or firefighters hosing down the area.

Easy Enhancements for Traditional Student Desking

As inventive shapes and intriguing sizes have become more prevalent in the student desking market, the need for traditional classroom desks remains. Take inspiration from new classroom designs and enhance your everyday desks to improve productivity and increase student engagement in every learning environment.

You're on a Roll!

Casters are the easiest way to keep your classroom layout flexible and on the move. Set up your space with traditional rows while making it easy for kids to roll their way into basic pods or other collaborative structures. With locks at the base, it's just as easy to keep your class facing forward in neat lines when there isn't any need for mobility. 

Write On, Wipe Off

Skip the woodgrain laminate look and go with a whiteboard desktop. Specially-coated porcelain finishes are resistant to ghosting, making it easy for kids to practice math problems, take quick notes, or doodle as their day goes by. These easy-to-clean surfaces can also have a metal underlayer, allowing magnets to be used throughout the school day.

The Sky's the Limit

…Or at least the maximum height of your desk is the limit. Small adjustments in height can allow each student to find the perfect posture for their growing bodies. While some desks feature telescoping legs that adjust to set increments, pneumatic or crank-based options can provide a more tailored adjustment without adding costly power to each desk.

School Day Storage

Optional storage can go beyond lift-top desks or open cubbies. Simple backpack hooks that don't compromise balance can take a load off, while out-of-the-way baskets or pencil trays can provide temporary storage without the inevitable clutter. Optional racking can allow students to attach bins beneath their desks, storing them away in a different location when they're done using their workspace.

Technological Touches

STEM classrooms greatly benefit from the tech-ready features of today's makerspace furniture. A few simple power outlets can make it easy for students to charge laptops, network ports can optimize internet connections, or USB ports can improve access to small electronics or peripherals. Choose the right powerups for your needs, and make sure you have cable ramps to eliminate trip and slip hazards whenever possible.

Modern Student Desks

Available in 10 Options

Diamond Adjustable Height Mini Student Desk with Book Box

$359.00

Available in 2 Options

Cantilever Curve Top Student Desk - 34"W

$599.00

Available in 8 Options

Adjustable Height Whiteboard Desk - 35"W

$439.00

Available in 2 Options

Merge Stacking Desk 27"W

$149.00GSA

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Available in 15 Options

Fixed Height Desk with Casters 36"W x 22"D

$339.00

Available in 1 Option

ADA Aptitude Desk

$279.00

Available in 4 Options

17in Euroflex Dual-entry Combo

$299.00

37"H Butcher Block Desk - 36"W x 36"D

$1,279.00

Buying new activity tables for your classroom? Activity tables come in a wide range of shapes that all exist for a specific purpose. Learn more about which shape will best suit your classroom activities below.

Rectangular activity tables are the standard due to their versatility. Use these tables by themselves or in a more modular configuration to suit independent work or group projects.

Square activity tables, like their rectangular counterparts, are modular and easy to move about the classroom in a variety of configurations, making them a popular choice.

Round activity tables make activities easier by putting every student at an equal distance from one another. This way, supplies in the middle of the table are within reach of everyone, and it’s easier to hold group discussions.

Kidney- and U-shaped tables are ideal for group discussions with the teacher. In this configuration, the teacher sits in the U-shaped inside of the table while students line the outer portions. This setup makes it easy for the instructor to help multiple students at once.

Trapezoidal activity tables are ideal for medium-sized group work and modular when you need more space for larger group activities.

Choosing the best whiteboard for a classroom can be tricky business. Not only do you need to find something that fits within the school's budget, but you also want to get the best value for your money. Although glass whiteboards may be more of an investment than traditional melamine options, here are 3 reasons we recommend glass markerboards for schools.

1. Glass Whiteboards Don't Stain

There's no need to worry about writing over old marker stains because glass whiteboards are resistant to ghosting. How? Glass has a nonporous construction, meaning marker residue can't get trapped beneath the board's surface as it can with porcelain and melamine boards. Your glass whiteboard can survive for many years in the classroom without showing a single stain. 

2. Glass Boards Are Durable Enough to Last

Not only do these boards not stain, but they're built to last in general. There's nothing flimsy about these heavy-duty whiteboards, and although the up-front cost of glass is greater than melamine or porcelain, you'll thank yourself years down the road when you don't have to replace them. These marker boards were truly made to last. 

3. Glass Looks the Best

Glass boards look great. This is partially due to the lack of ghosting and scratches on the surface, but it's also because most glass boards have a frameless design that appears to float on your wall. Many manufacturers offer glass boards in a huge array of color options, so you'll have plenty of exciting designs to choose from for your classroom.

From allowing students to make their own choices to bringing more active movement into each day, there are many good reasons to add flexible seating to your classroom. Although this education trend is relatively new, myriad options are available in this category. Where do you start? Read our quick tips for how to introduce flexible seating to your students.   

Determine the Needs of Your Students 

Consider the number of students you have and their individual needs. Will you replace old furniture or simply add to it? Although some kids thrive in fully flexible classrooms, others may require a more structured setup. Many teachers prefer hybrid classrooms with both traditional desks and flexible options.  

Not only will you need to think about the learning needs of individual students, but you’ll need to consider different lesson plans as well. Do you want students to sit or stand during group exercises? Do you want them to use alternative seating options only during individual reading time? Only during group lessons? Every classroom is unique, and it’s up to you as the teacher to decide what setup will work best for your kids.  

Visualize and Measure Your Classroom 

Take a close look at your teaching style and consider where in your classroom you want your flexible seating to go. What areas of the room are underutilized? What can you rearrange to accommodate new furniture? Once you’ve determined where in your classroom you want your various alternative seating options to go, measure the space to determine what chairs and tables will be able to fit in the area when purchasing classroom furniture online.  

Introduce the Options to Your Students and their Parents 

Whether you go with exercise balls, wobble stools, couches, swivel chairs, or another active seating option, you’ll need a game plan to introduce them to students and their parents. Your kids will be very excited when they first see these seating options in your classroom, so it’s important to set boundaries and model them right from the start. The first week or two may be challenging, but remain firm and consistent, and your students will reap the benefits soon enough. 

Although introducing flexible seating to your students is important, explaining your choices to their parents is just as crucial. Because most parents did not have flexible seating when they were in school, they are likely to be unfamiliar with the benefits of alternative seating. It’s important for you as the teacher to educate parents so they understand why flexible seating will help their children learn.  

Make Plans for Substitute Teachers 

One of the biggest concerns teachers with flexible seating classrooms have is introducing the rules to substitutes. If you have a hybrid classroom with traditional desks and alternative seating options, you may find it easier to keep students in their traditional chairs during sub days. But if you only have flexible seating in your room, it’s best to write out instructions for your substitute that are as detailed as possible to avoid any confusion or students taking advantage.  

Remember that this is a major shift in your classroom setup, and there will likely be a steep transition period as you and your students get used to a new way of doing things. By preparing yourself for this transition and establishing clear expectations, you’ll set yourself and your students up for success from the very start.  

Stools, Rockers, Soft Seats, and More

Available in 12 Options

Drift Large - 22.25"W x 19.25"D x 17"H

$269.00

Available in 12 Options

Amped Chair

$689.00

Available in 3 Options

Lesson Swivel Tablet Chair

$329.00 $449.00

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Available in 6 Options

Two Legged Chair with Carpet Casters

$239.00

Available in 8 Options

Double Ended Rocking Stool

$199.00

Available in 8 Options

Tall Motion Stool - 18"-23"H

$199.00

Available in 8 Options

Gather Two Half Circle Shape Set

$2,749.00

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The cafeteria is the source of food, fun, and students touching everything in sight—and perhaps the most important space in your school to keep clean. Fortunately for you and your janitorial staff, keeping cafeteria furniture clean can be simple.

Lunchroom Tables

Most cafeteria tables are made with laminate tabletops, which are highly resistant to wear and tear and, best of all, a breeze to keep clean. Simply use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to clean down every tabletop after each lunch period. Use a mixture of baking soda and a mild cleaner with a stiff bristle brush to remove any stubborn stains.

Cafeteria Chairs and Stools

Most chairs and stools in the lunch room are made of plastic or resin. To clean, use warm water and mild detergent after each lunch period. You can wipe down metal legs on both chairs and tables with a damp cloth and warm water.

Regular Maintenance

Keeping cafeterias clean is not difficult work so long as it’s addressed regularly. Cafeteria furniture should be completely cleaned after every lunch period. So if your school offers multiple lunch periods, the cafeteria should be wiped down after each. The lunchroom should also be cleaned at the beginning of each day to wipe away any germs and debris remaining from after-school programs or any events that may have occurred in the cafeteria the night before.

Whether a long winter break or an even longer summer break, time off from school pulls students away from their studies and can result in a serious lack of productivity. Here are some ways to keep your teens and tweens busy during long breaks from school while still allowing them to enjoy their time off.

Provide Extra Chores

In addition to regular daily chores, have your children take on additional duties during breaks from school. This can include putting away groceries, dusting furniture, or folding laundry. Incorporating extra household chores will teach added responsibility and keep your kids busy when they don’t have the structure of school.

Encourage a Part-Time Job

If your children are old enough to get a job, encourage them to work part-time during summer and winter breaks. Not only will working part-time keep a sense of structure in the student’s life, but it will also help teach them the value of a dollar and earning their own money.

Help Them Volunteer

Volunteering during breaks will teach students the value of helping others while maintaining a sense of responsibility and self-worth. Remember that volunteering should be a positive experience for the student, so allow them to choose a volunteer activity they will enjoy—such as walking dogs for the local humane society or serving at a church dinner with their friends.

Keep Them Reading

Tables and chairs make learning easier, but don’t forget the little things that will really make your daycare an engaging learning environment! Read on to learn more about the accessories your daycare could probably use.

Area rugs and floor mats in all shapes and sizes help define spaces within the classroom and make learning more fun. Whether you want a solid color rug to place under the activity tables in the room or a learning rug for children to sit on during lessons, you’ll find it all here.

Benches designed for daycare use are typically made of child-safe wood and often include built-in storage for toys and other school supplies.

Book carts are great for keeping books organized and easy to move around for cleaning and class activities.

Changing tables are a must-have for daycares. Some options are basic, while others include built-in storage and even a sink.

Clocks come in all different shapes and sizes to accommodate your classroom needs and keep you on task.

Cots make nap time easier and more comfortable. Plus, most cots are stackable, making them easy to store and clean around.

Cribs, like changing tables, are a must-have for daycares. Make sure you have enough cribs for all the children in your facility who need them. You may want to choose a mobile crib, which will make cleaning and reconfiguring the space much easier.

Cubbies help teach children good organizational skills and make a teacher’s job a lot easier. From wardrobe storage for coats and hats to cubbies for toys and art supplies, many options exist.

Play sets come in both indoor and outdoor varieties and are designed to keep kids active while encouraging their imaginations.

Whitney Houston said it best: “I believe the children are our future—teach them well and let them lead the way.” At National Business Furniture, learners and educators hold a very special place within our organization.

Rounding out 2021, NBF’s Volunteer Committee was honored to make a donation to Book Ahead, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a new book every month to underserved children aged 0–5 years. These efforts help develop literacy early on and encourage reading with the adults in their lives. The Volunteer Committee felt Book Ahead’s mission aligns with our continuous dedication to the nation’s littlest learners.  

We strive to furnish classrooms with fun (yay, color!) yet functional furniture for students and teachers—our focus is quality, affordability, and flexibility.

Our high-quality offering of school furniture is also backed by our exclusive Lifetime Guarantee. If any problems arise with the quality or craftsmanship of your item, NBF will repair or replace the item to your satisfaction. We understand that even with the most durable products, life in the classroom can sometimes be unpredictable.

We know that affordability and budget are critical, so we welcome you to learn more about federal funding that may have been allocated to your school or district.

Congress passed The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act directed $2.2 trillion toward American states, local cities, educational systems, and businesses abruptly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With our education system in mind, $30.75 billion was then allocated to the US Department of Education, out of which $13.2 billion was further allocated to The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER I Fund). A year after that disbursement, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) provided an additional $54.3 billion to The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER II Fund). CRRSAA also supplied the Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools (EANS) program with $2.75 billion in support of eligible schools still trudging through these unprecedented times.

A lot of federal funding was made available to schools to support returning to a safe, efficient classroom as instruction pivots back to in-person learning. Allocated to each state, ESSER and EANS funds can be used to restock schools with PPE and sneeze guards or equip individual classrooms with their own portable sinks, hand-washing stations, and air purifiers.

Learning about and utilizing these funds can be overwhelming. If you’re unsure of where begin, give our Furniture Specialists a call at 1-866-420-6227 to get the ball rolling on a quote (this will make your PO process a breeze!).

NBF has the essentials you’ll need to continue upholding a safe learning environment for learners and educators alike. Echoing the great Whitney as we continue to endure this pandemic, our dedicated focus on the quality furniture in each classroom will “...give them a sense of pride to make it easier. Let the children’s laughter remind us how it used to be.”

Large or small, the lobby in your school should be comfortable and accommodating for students, parents, guests, and school staff. Read on for a detailed look into what you should add to your school’s waiting area.

Reception desks come in a huge selection of sizes and styles to suit any reception area. You're sure to find an option for your school from large, rounded desks for open waiting areas to smaller desks that only accommodate a school secretary. These desks also come in various styles to match the modern look or traditional charm of the rest of the space.

Reception seating should be comfortable and easy to clean. Go with chairs that have well-cushioned seats and are upholstered in vinyl, which is much easier to wipe down than fabric. You may also want to select seating with a gap between the back and the seat so that crumbs and debris won’t get lodged in the creases of the chair.

Announcement boards include whiteboards and bulletin boards that you can use to post announcements in your school lobby. While wall décor will bring a little style to the space, announcement boards are functional options that can be updated whenever new events and announcements need to be made.

Floor mats will keep the floors in your lobby looking their best and lasting much longer. Mats come in a huge range of sizes and colors, so you’ll have no trouble finding an option that perfectly fits your lobby. Position floor mats just outside and inside your lobby entry to maximize efficiency.

Coat racks provide a designated space for guests to keep jackets and purses while they wait. Not only do these make the waiting experience easier for visitors, but they also help keep your lobby cleaner and better organized.

Magazine and brochure racks come in freestanding and wall-mounted varieties. These allow you to display reading materials guests can enjoy while waiting. They also make an ideal spot to house commonly passed out brochures, making them easy for guidance counselors and staff to reach whenever needed.

Display cases allow you to show off awards and student work in your lobby. Be aware that most display cases are quite large, so you’ll want to measure your space before purchasing one.

Occasional tables include coffee tables, end tables, and sofa tables. Providing any combination of these different tables will allow guests in your waiting area to fill out paperwork and set down beverages more easily.

Crowd control is a required accessory for spacious lobbies that see a large number of people at the same time. Stanchions will provide flow within a lobby and show guests where lines begin and end at a glance.

Large or small, the lobby in your school should be comfortable and accommodating for students, parents, guests and school staff. Read on to get a detailed look into what you should add to your school’s waiting area.

You don’t have to be an avid reader to appreciate the calm, quiet, and studious nature of a well-designed library. Due to how they are used, furnishings in academic libraries must meet particular requirements. Consider these important factors when purchasing furniture items for an academic library.

Durability and Reusability 

A library in an academic setting is bound to be open and in use more often than your average library. Search for options that promise long-lasting use and impressive durability. Look for items that are solidly built. Another option is to find a retailer like NBF that offers a lifetime guarantee on most of their products.

Flexibility, Adaptability, and Portability

Today, it’s important for any setting to contemplate patron characteristics. Students and other academics will have vastly different preferences for how they like to work or how they can best study and learn. Furniture that supports different body types and preferred postures can change to suit the user’s preference is always the best option in academic libraries. This way, your library supports and caters to many different work and learning styles. An example would be not only including standing tables and workstations but also lounge-style seating.

Design Balance

As with most environments, balance in design is vital for an academic library. This is especially true when it comes to natural and artificial lighting. Natural light is the most preferable, as it can boost productivity, but artificial light will be needed to ensure that the area is properly lit, thereby avoiding eye strain during evening hours and on rainy days.

Technology Support

One of the most frequent complaints in an academic library, especially one that accommodates college students with laptops, is the shortage of power outlets. Today, many desks come with wire management systems and grommet holes to make charging a laptop a much simpler process. Another concern with technology is simply ensuring that you have the proper desks and equipment to support and store various technology available in your academic library. Some lounge seating options also feature built-in power outlets to help address this problem.  

Check out the Academic Library Building Design Resource to learn more about designing the ideal academic library.

A school library is a place for learning and exploration. As such, selecting the right furniture for the space is essential to the library’s success. Take a look at our recommendations for what types of furniture to add to your school's library. 

Circulation and reference desks are the centerpieces of the library. These large desks indicate where students can go for help finding reading materials and checking out books. Make sure you select heavy-duty library desks that can withstand high traffic use. Choose a circulation desk option that was truly made for circulation purposes and includes at least one book drop to make re-shelving materials easier for librarians and circulation staff.

Activity tables should be added around open areas of the library so students have a place to sit and study with their notebooks open. Activity tables come in a wide assortment of sizes, shapes, and styles, so shop carefully to determine what will best fit your space and your students' needs.

Library chairs come in several different styles. First, you'll need some basic guest seating alongside your activity tables. You may also decide to incorporate lounge seating in certain areas of your library. Lounge chairs with tablet arms provide a comfortable place for students to sit and study while offering a small writing space for taking notes or holding a beverage.

Bookcases are, of course, an essential part of any library. For a high-traffic area such as a school, we recommend metal bookshelves that can easily withstand daily use for many years. How many bookshelves you need will greatly depend on the size of your school population and the size of the library itself.

Library storage includes lockable cabinets, mobile book carts, AV equipment carts, and more. The number of storage units you'll need will greatly depend on the size of your student population and technology needs. You'll also want to consider your staff’s comfort and equip them with storage that will make them more efficient.

Study carrels are small desks with partitions around 3 of the sides. Study carrels are an ideal addition to school libraries because they provide a private space for students to take tests and work on homework assignments without worrying about wandering classmates' eyes.

Announcement boards are often added to the walls around school libraries so teachers and students can post notes and announcements for the general student population to see. The library is an ideal spot for posting announcements.

Whether you need to furnish a new school or give a fresh face to an outdated style, the chairs in your educational facility are some of the most important furniture to consider. Unsure what you need? Read our comprehensive guide to school chairs to help you on your way to seating everyone in style and support.

School chairs come in a vast and varied selection, including options for students, teachers, visitors, and staff. Depending on the type of school you're furnishing, you'll want to incorporate different styles of chairs throughout the building, including comfortable seating in your school office, ergonomic task chairs behind your teachers' desks, and durable student seating for every grade.

Stacking chairs are seating options that can be stacked for easy storage and transport capabilities. This type of seating is common in classrooms and lunchrooms because it is usually durable and makes cleaning up a room easy for janitorial staff. 

Folding chairs are often made of metal and used in school auditoriums for special events. Not only are these seating options durable enough to use for years, but they're also a breeze to transport and store in tight spaces, making them an ideal option for temporary use.

Task chairs should be provided for teachers and school office staff so they can sit comfortably at their desks during school hours. Consider providing ergonomic task chairs so your teachers and staff can adjust the seating according to individual needs.

Guest chairs should be added to your school office and teacher's lounge to provide a warm welcome and a comfortable stay for guests and staff alike. Guest seating comes in a wide assortment, including sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, nesting chairs, and more.

Bench seating comes in outdoor and indoor varieties. Outdoor benches are ideal for playgrounds and waiting areas outside the school, while indoor benches can be used in cafeterias, waiting areas, and teacher lounges.

Student chair desks (also called chair desk combos) are chairs with an attached writing surface. This type of furniture provides both a chair and a desk in one and is ideal for keeping a clean, well-organized look in a classroom.

Tablet chairs are similar, but they have only one small tablet that may be used as a writing surface. These are great in classrooms for student use or waiting areas for guests.

Pulpit chairs are also available for schools with churches. Pulpit chairs are large and well-cushioned for an impressive look and comfortable feel.

We've all heard of flexible seating. It's a growing trend in schools across the country—especially those that embrace innovation and creative change. Endless pictures on social media show how teachers can configure their classrooms to make learning both exciting and effective. Literature, blogs, and think pieces explore the flexible movement, but what, at its core, is it all about?

Many people have questions, and, having used flexible seating in my elementary school classrooms for several years, I have answers. They all boil down to this: by giving students choices to enhance their comfort, they can do better work and feel better.

What Is Flexible Seating?

Flexible seating is, essentially, a way to diversify seating options in the classroom while allowing students to choose what will help them do their best work. Different kids have different needs—some fidget, some prefer something squishy, and some prefer a gentle rocking motion. Provide several options, and let the students decide what works best for them.

When Do Kids Use Flexible Seating?

In my classroom, we divide time between gathered learning and independent work. Kids flock to a carpet at the front of the room during lessons and group discussions to learn together. My students are young, so I am with them for their core subjects. No matter the topic, we learn together as a group before moving to in-class work time.

When we finish a lesson, students disperse and choose a workstation. Depending on the assignment, the difficulty, or even the day, kids can choose the appropriate place to suit their mood. Each seating style may have its perks and problems for each student. However, one kid's last choice may be another's favorite.

What Types of Alternative Seats Are Available? 

My journey with flexible seating began with yoga balls. I saw photos of imaginative classrooms in bright colors with yoga balls stationed at various workspaces. At the start of every year, I typically have about 12 of them. Since they're bouncy, round, and fun, I start by teaching kids how to properly sit on them. I tell them, "I shouldn't be able to hear your yoga ball" if they move too much.

Some kids prefer other active seating options, such as floor rockers or inexpensive scoop rockers. Others prefer softer options, such as cushions or modular shapes that can be stacked and moved to fit their needs. They can even sit at the teacher's desk. Different teachers employ different techniques and select suites of seats that are age-appropriate, size appropriate, and suit the demographics of their classrooms.

What About Traditional Desks and Chairs?

Some students prefer traditional seating to aid in their concentration. While nobody has a dedicated desk that's exclusively "theirs," there are several desks to work from as they desire. In my classroom, kids keep their personal supplies in one particular desk and use that as a touchdown point throughout the day. That all changes during flexible time—any desk is up for grabs, and everybody has equal access to any workspace. 

How Do You Ensure Fairness During Flexible Worktime?

Yoga balls sound like the most fun, don't they? While some students don't prefer them, many do—especially when they're first introduced. We take an egalitarian approach if the interest outweighs the opportunities. Students can sign up for their use, and we cycle through them as needed. Of course, the appeal of yoga balls may wear off over time, and kids will usually find their perfect fit. Some will stick with yoga balls; others will move on.

There's always added interest when I bring in any new piece of furniture, no matter what it may be. I take a similar approach and ensure that everybody can take their turn and, as always, interest evens off after a while.

Does Flexible Seating Affect Students’ Behavior?

Absolutely. Over time, I have noticed behavioral issues decrease, especially as the students learn to collaborate and share. If kids feel comfortable, they're far more likely to open up and become willing to learn. Kids who struggle with sitting still tend to benefit from subtle movements that can meet their needs without derailing their concentration. Overall, flexible seating leads to happier students, and happier students are better learners.

Choice is notoriously absent in K–12 education, yet it is necessary in the real world. Flexible seating isn't just done; it's taught. And by its nature, we're also teaching children how to make decisions that work best for them. They take control of their best interests—a lesson that can't come from a textbook.

Whiteboards (or dry-erase boards) have taken over the role once completely dominated by chalkboards in the classroom. But with all the different kinds of boards available today, how do you decide what type of board will be best for your school’s classrooms? Here’s what to consider.

Wall Mounted or Mobile?

First things first: Do you want a whiteboard to mount on the wall in your classroom, or would you prefer a mobile option?

Wall-mounted whiteboards are ideal for permanent use in a classroom, and most classrooms designate a good amount of wall space for this purpose. Wall-mounted whiteboards offer a great permanent solution and are also great space savers as they don’t take up any floor space. Make sure to measure your wall before shopping to ensure your new board will fit the space. 

Mobile whiteboards take up more floor space than wall-mounted options, but they’re great learning tools when teachers need a writing surface in different areas of the room or even in different rooms. Mobile dry-erase boards come in almost as many sizes as the wall-mounted variety, making it easy to find the right option for your classroom. Many mobile boards are even reversible, meaning they have a whiteboard surface on both sides.

Type of Board Surfaces

Whiteboards come in a broad range of surface types that all look similar, so it can be tough to decipher the differences and which option will be best for your classroom. The 4 main types of whiteboard are as follows:

Melamine whiteboards are made of a plastic material that can be written on and erased. The primary benefit to melamine is that it is budget-friendly and lightweight. However, note that this type of surface is more susceptible to staining, ghosting, and denting, so you may need to replace it every few years, especially if used in a busy classroom. Melamine boards are often made with a steel backing that makes them magnetic, which is great for posting notes and student artwork in a school.

Porcelain whiteboards, otherwise known as ceramic dry-erase boards, are another common type of whiteboard. Although more expensive than melamine, porcelain offers much increased durability and resistance to scratches and stains. Like melamine, porcelain boards are easy to write on and often magnetic, but because porcelain is less porous, the surface is less likely to succumb to ghosting.

Glass boards are not porous at all, making them the most durable option. However, it also makes them more expensive. Because markers can be easily erased from glass without ghosting or staining, these boards last much longer than melamine or porcelain, so you won’t need to replace them anytime soon. Glass boards are usually frameless and even come in fun colors that can work well in a classroom.

Gorilla Glass is a specialized type of glass made by Corning that is thinner and more lightweight than regular glass. Gorilla Glass is commonly used to make smartphone screens because it is super-durable and resistant to cracking and scratching. The same material is now used to manufacture dry-erase boards, making them even tougher and longer-lasting than standard glass boards.

Specialty Whiteboards

There are a number of specially designed whiteboards available to meet specific classroom needs.

Music staff whiteboards, as the name implies, have a printed music staff on them. This is ideal for music, choir, and band teachers to use without having to use valuable class time to draw a new staff every day. 

Calendar boards are similar to music staff boards but have a blank calendar printed on them instead of a staff. These boards are especially ideal for classrooms where a calendar is almost always posted somewhere. These large, erasable calendars eliminate the need for paper waste and make calendar creation more fun for students and teachers.

Peel-and-stick whiteboards come rolled up like a poster. Peel off their protective backing and stick the board on your wall to create a nice built-in look that is often more affordable than framed boards that need to be mounted.

Colored boards are usually made of glass and come in a variety of sizes and colors. Whether you’re matching your whiteboards to your school colors or want a cool black dry-erase board for your school cafeteria, there are many choices.

Whiteboard easels and flip charts allow educators and students to write comfortably while keeping markers and erasers nearby. Most easels are mobile, making them easy to move around in the classroom or wherever they’re needed.

Digital dry-erase boards are interactive and often preferred for higher education. These boards become large, interactive screens that bring presentations to life when connected to a computer and projector.

It’s a fact—there is no one-size-fits-all solution to classroom seating. Class size, student behavior, and the teacher’s lesson plans greatly affect how a classroom should be set up. Of course, it’s usually up to the teacher to decide how to arrange the classroom, and that typically involves some degree of trial and error. To help you decide what configuration is best for your students, check out the benefits and drawbacks of these popular classroom setups.

Stadium-Style Seating

Stadium-style seating involves angled rows of student desks that touch on the sides. This common desk arrangement faces all students to the front of the room, ensuring everyone has their eyes on the teacher and the lesson.

Pros: The primary benefit of stadium seating is that the teacher can see what every student is doing at all times because everyone is facing the front and is in clear view. Likewise, every student also has a clear view of the teacher, ensuring everyone can see what’s happening. Because students are already next to each other, group work can be done quickly and easily. The advantage of angling the rows rather than leaving them straight is that it’s easier for students to see the front of the room and also leaves some space at the front of the classroom for a podium or AV cart.

Cons: Although stadium seating works well for smaller class sizes, it may not be ideal for larger classes as the rows would need to be farther away from the front of the room to accommodate more students.

Horseshoe-Style Seating

Horseshoe- or U-shaped seating is ideal for seating a large number of students without taking up the entire classroom. In a U-shaped configuration, students are seated side-by-side and can be easily separated from their friends if necessary. This arrangement allows you to utilize more wall space around the desks for other purposes.

Pros: The horseshoe shape enables teachers to fit a large number of desks in a small space, making this an ideal configuration for larger classrooms with more students. Students are more separated from each other in this configuration, making individual work easier and preventing students from getting distracted by one another. 

Cons: The same benefit of spreading students out can also be a negative aspect of this classroom arrangement. Because children are so spread out, it can be difficult for a teacher to address the entire class directly. It can also make group work a little trickier since desks cannot be moved around the room as easily as they can be with a stadium configuration.

Runway-Style Seating

Runway-style seating involves 2 rows of desks facing each other with a good deal of space between them, forming a "runway." In this setup, the teacher stands in the runway during lessons and can walk up and down freely while speaking.

Pros: This setup emphasizes paying attention to the teacher. This configuration is best-suited for classrooms that hold a lot of lectures and class-wide discussions.

Cons: Due to the amount of space it takes up in the classroom, the runway-style configuration is not suitable for large class sizes. This type of grouping can also make group and partner work tricky.

Cluster-Style Seating

Clusters or group seating works well if you have a smaller class and include a lot of group activities in your lesson plans. This grouping may not work with larger classrooms because it encourages collaboration, which you may find difficult to manage if too many students constantly get off-task.

Pros: This type of configuration can really save on floor space, and it’s great for supporting group activities. After all, everyone is already in groups! It doesn’t get much easier than that.

Cons: Students may be more likely to chat in this configuration, so you may struggle to hold their attention. This arrangement is distracting for many, so it may not be right for every student.

Hybrid-Style Seating

Hybrid seating involves a combination of the arrangements listed above.

Pros: Hybrid seating is very flexible and allows teachers to accommodate specific student needs. Remember what we said about there being no one-size-fits-all solution? This arrangement allows teachers to accommodate specific children with specific desk arrangements. 

Cons: This style can be tricky to accommodate since it requires special procedures for passing out and collecting papers and supplies.