This past January, teachers and students at Hall and Hollydale Elementary Schools moved into brand new classrooms. Each school received a six classroom expansion thanks to funding from the 2016 Gresham-Barlow School Bond.
Kathryn Unger teaches fourth grade at Hall Elementary. Her class moved into one of Hall’s new classrooms after winter break, and she says that she immediately saw a difference in how students behaved.
“Students seem a lot more calm and a lot more eager to learn,” said Unger. “Students are proud of being in a nice and new classroom. We have a big window now, and students like being able to see outside and observe things throughout the day.”
The new classrooms are equipped with modern educational technology, including flat panel teaching screens. The classrooms are also energy efficient, and are designed to maximize natural light.
Unger noted that her students appreciate both the natural light and the new technology. “We have a big window now, and students like being able to see outside and observe things throughout the day. Kids are so excited to sit in front of [the new technology] and share their work on it with the rest of the classroom.”
Approximately 400 students moved into these brand news classrooms in January. These new classrooms help the district prepare for the population growth in the district.
The 2016 school bond also funded brand new playgrounds at Hall and Hollydale Elementaries. Both playgrounds opened in 2018. Both schools were also updated with modern, secure vestibule entrances as well.
While the construction was at times difficult, Ms. Unger noted that the payoff of a new classroom was worth it. “Students were patient during the construction, and students were so flexible and so open-minded to how their routine would change, but they continue to express how grateful they are.”