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David W. Smouse Opportunity School

Coordinates: 41°35′28″N 93°39′19″W / 41.5911°N 93.6552°W / 41.5911; -93.6552
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David W. Smouse Opportunity School
David W. Smouse Opportunity School is located in Iowa
David W. Smouse Opportunity School
David W. Smouse Opportunity School is located in the United States
David W. Smouse Opportunity School
Location2820 Center St.
Des Moines, Iowa
Coordinates41°35′28″N 93°39′19″W / 41.5911°N 93.6552°W / 41.5911; -93.6552
Built1931
ArchitectProudfoot, Rawson, Souers & Thomas
Architectural styleTudor Revival
MPSPublic Schools for Iowa: Growth and Change MPS
NRHP reference No.02001251[1]
Added to NRHPOctober 24, 2002

The David W. Smouse Opportunity School is an historical building located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. The building was designed by the Des Moines architectural firm of Proudfoot, Rawson, Souers & Thomas in the Tudor Revival style.[1] The school opened in 1931 and served the educational needs of 165 students with physical disabilities and were unable to attend a regular public school.[2] The facility was designed for their individual needs. The blackboards were tilted to prevent glare for the visually impaired, rooms were designed to carry sound vibrations for the hearing impaired students. Large windows and three courtyards provided fresh air. One of the courtyards had a fountain. The restrooms were adapted, temperature controls in each classroom, and a rooftop playground were included in the building’s design. A swimming pool was added in 1955. Financial gifts were used to purchase works of art throughout the building. Imported ceramic tiles, wrought iron signs, working fireplaces and decorative light fixtures also adorned the facility. The school was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b c "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. March 13, 2009.
  2. ^ "The Rich History Of Smouse School". Des Moines Public Schools. Retrieved 2012-03-11.