A few months ago, construction of the new Jackson Park Elementary School might have felt a bit like a marathon.
Although the site planning and design work was in progress, the finish line was miles away. But soon, expects Principal Tess McCartan, it will seem more like a sprint.
The district broke ground on the project in June. Since then, students have been watching the new school take shape right before their eyes.
“For a long time it seemed so far away,” said McCartan. “But now things are moving really fast and the kids are excited. It’s amazing to think we’ll be starting the next school year in our new building.”
It’s easy for students to track the new school’s progress because it’s happening right next door to their current building. Many of them spend recess time watching the construction site activities.
The daily monitoring generates excitement, McCartan says, adding that the construction staff has been great to work with. “It’s been a flawless process,” she said. “I can’tsay enough about the whole team.”
Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations David McVicker is also pleased with the construction process. The project is on schedule even after a wet fall.
It’s also within budget.
“On time and on budget,” said McVicker. “That’s what taxpayers expected when they approved the Capital Projects Levy, and that’s what we expect. It’s been a long road, but when we do open the new Jackson Park, it’ll be a great day. They’ve needed a new facility for a long time.”
The school will open on September 3, 2014. A ribbon cutting celebration will take place that month.
“We’re so grateful to our community for its support,” said McCartan. “We are all really anxious to open the doors of our new school and invite everyone in.”
With Jackson Park on track, it won’t be long before work begins at Silverdale Elementary. The school will get a much-needed renovation that will improve conditions for all students and staff. This includes increased office and classroom space, as well as a new heating and cooling system and new plumbing.
The project is at the beginning of the design process, but Principal Ninette Rivero says the changes will make a big difference.
“We have such a great community here,” she said. “It will be nice when the functionality of our renovated school will reflect the culture of our students, staff and parents. That’s really what it’s about.”