The hallway-and-classroom model of school architecture is out. Instead, forward-thinking schools feature flexible "learning spaces," wellness rooms, touch-free lighting and plumbing — and of course, souped-up HVAC for optimum ventilation.

Why it matters: Lots of pandemic relief money is earmarked for school improvements, so there's a big window of opportunity for construction projects that boost pedagogy as well as students' physical and mental wellbeing.

Driving the news: At the same time that teaching has shifted from a "sage on a stage" to a "whole child" approach — which emphasizes collaboration, small groups and hands-on learning — some school districts find themselves with cash for complementary architecture.

What they're saying: "Classroom design has evolved," says Troy Hoggard, an architect at CannonDesign. He worked with the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh on the Ehrman Crest Elementary/Middle School in Seneca Valley, Pennsylvania, opening this fall.

Between the lines: School designers also need to factor in enhanced security — like open lines of sight — and climate change, which has some districts building storm and tornado shelters.

Architects are also giving more prominence to automotive and culinary arts programs, in recognition that schools aren't just for the college-bound.

Yes, but: Nationwide, school construction aspirations are being tempered by the rising cost of materials and labor, worker shortages and supply-chain problems, which have combined to put lots of projects on ice.

The bottom line: At schools built decades ago, the need for pandemic-era upgrades is calling attention to any number of wish-list items.