Mosaic Pre-K Center is a groundbreaking facility in New York City, offering early childhood STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education in partnership with the New York Hall of Science. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, the center provides access to the museum’s resources, fostering continuous learning and community engagement. As part of the City’s Universal Pre-K Initiative, it delivers free, full-day 3K and Pre-K programming to 306 children in the low-income neighborhood of Corona, Queens, supporting both short- and long-term cognitive, social, and emotional development.

The three-story building features 17 classrooms, two multi-purpose rooms, and support spaces. A large outdoor playground, integrated with mature trees, offers diverse play structures, a turf mound, and shaded seating areas, promoting physical activity and social interaction. Interior spaces feature a vibrant yet soft color palette and materials that harmonize common areas with classrooms.

Designed to reflect the advancements of STEAM disciplines, the building meets high sustainability standards. Its highly insulated, tightly sealed envelope, featuring precast wall panels and curtain walls with integrated sunshades, minimizes energy use in the all-electric structure. High-efficiency heat pumps, LED lighting, and water-conserving plumbing fixtures further reduce resource consumption. Native landscaping eliminates irrigation needs, while recycled and locally sourced materials contribute to achieving NYC Green Schools Certification, equivalent to LEED for Schools Silver.

Beyond its educational mission, the center serves as a community hub. It provides indoor multi-purpose rooms and a community room for events, meetings, and other gatherings. The outdoor playground, created on previously unused parkland, is open to the public after school hours, offering a vital recreational space for families. The center stands as a beacon of architectural excellence, enhancing connections between the neighborhood, the Hall of Science, and the surrounding park.

By integrating sustainable design, innovative programming, and community-focused amenities, Mosaic Pre-K Center exemplifies the transformative power of early education. It not only fosters a healthy, vibrant learning environment but also strengthens the broader community by addressing educational and social needs through a world-class facility.

Design: MDSA
Design Team: Michael Szerbaty, Michael Freedman, Melissa Makowski, Jason Campagna
Photography: Pavel Bendov | Arch Explorer