08/20/2026
Completed in the early 1950s, Buffalo Public School #38 on Vermont Street (now BPS 30) represents an important chapter in Buffalo’s postwar architectural history.
Designed by James William Kideney & Associates, the one- and two-story brick school was conceived in the International Style, emphasizing functional planning, clean architectural lines, natural light, and modern educational facilities. It was part of a notable group of Buffalo schools designed by Kideney, including Schools #12 and #36.
Contemporary accounts recognized School #38 as an exceptional example of modern school architecture. The Buffalo News described it as the most complete school in the district since the 1930s and also featured its built-in facilities and modern conveniences as seen below.
The building reflects an important moment in Buffalo’s history, when school architecture was evolving to accommodate new approaches to education and the needs of a growing postwar population. Rather than relying on the monumental forms of earlier school buildings, School #38 embraced a simpler, functional aesthetic characteristic of mid-century modernism.
Its design is a reminder that some of Buffalo’s most significant architectural history can be found not only in its celebrated civic and commercial buildings, but also in its neighborhood schools—buildings designed with the everyday life of the community in mind.
Public School #38 stands as an important example of Buffalo’s mid-century modern architectural heritage and the work of James William Kideney.
Follow along as Kideney Architects celebrates our 100th Anniversary! We'll be sharing highlights of 100 projects from historic to modern to milestone moments for the firm.
