The Phil Hardin Innovative Learning Lab logo

The Phil Hardin Innovative Learning Lab (PHILL) is a $300,000 multi-year project sponsored by the Phil Hardin Foundation, that began in 2022. The project honors the legacy of Room 124, which originally opened in 1973 as the Phil Hardin Laboratory for Home Economics. Today, the entire first floor of the EDHS building has been transformed into the PHILL, a creative and flexible learning and meeting space designed to support early educators, students, and community partners.

After 50 years, we have come full circle with another Phil Hardin project that will directly impact student success. The PHILL provides innovative spaces that strengthen educator preparation, build professional networks, and serve as a hub for collaboration.

Project Phases

  • Phase 1: Facilities – Renovation and redesign of learning spaces to create flexible, modern classrooms and meeting areas.
  • Phase 2: Technology – Integration of new classroom technology to support interactive, collaborative, and future-ready teaching and learning.
  • Phase 3: Professional Development (current phase) – Ongoing workshops, training, and collaborative opportunities to equip educators with the skills and resources they need to thrive.

Impact

The PHILL is a living investment in the future of Mississippi educators. This work has been made possible entirely through regional partnership. The PHILL stands as proof of what can be accomplished when foundations, businesses, and local partners come together to invest directly in educators and the future of our region.

By combining innovative spaces, advanced technology, and professional development, the project will:

  • Recruit the next generation of teachers.
  • Support early educators with hands-on resources.
  • Strengthen community partnerships through shared training opportunities.
  • Provide a positive, professional environment for collaboration and growth.
  • This work has been made possible entirely through community and regional partnerships, without any legislative appropriations. The PHILL stands as proof of what can be accomplished when foundations, schools, and local partners come together to invest directly in educators and the future of our region.

Reference

Read more in the original MUW News article: School of Education Renews Classrooms for Student Performance