Classroom renovations are starting, and after Thanksgiving break, some classes will temporarily move to portables. The temporary setup will allow construction teams to update classrooms for a safer, improved learning environment.
According to Principal Jason Waltman, the renovation project will first begin with relocating 11 classrooms. Students and teachers will relocate their daily classes and routines to the portables alongside the student parking lot.
“Every teacher and student in the A team will be relocated for about four months,” he explained.
While the move presents many challenges such as ensuring the safety of the students, the administration has already taken steps to ensure a smooth transition and their safety.
“We’ve already adjusted personnel to manage student flow out there to make sure students are safe and each portable has camera hookups, burglar alarms, fire alarms, and everything ready to go,” Mr. Waltman stated.
Mr. Bowman Halpin, one of the 11 teachers who will be temporarily relocated, shared his perspective on the move to portables. He expressed optimism about the renovations but also noted concerns about the distance from the rest of the school.
He said, “My main concern with the portables is restroom usage and students getting to and from class on time during passing periods.”
Halpin also mentioned that some adjustments may be needed with classroom technology and daily routines, such as adapting lessons with certain tools like projectors. Despite these small challenges, he remains optimistic about the temporary move. He believes the ongoing renovations will ultimately benefit the school.
Mrs. Kimberly McCullough also has to pack up her room of fourteen years. She began the process of boxing up her room with the help of her TAs. She said, “It’s amazing how much stuff one person can accumulate over the years. I had a lot of things to take down off the walls and empty out from cabinets. But this is a great time to clean things out and get rid of unused items.”
She hopes to keep teaching with few disruptions as they transition to the new classroom. “I hope my classes adjust well and continue to be productive.”
Many students recognize that while the move may be inconvenient, the updates will improve the school in the long run.
“Even though it means walking a little farther, I think the renovations will benefit future students,” stated Jennifer Heredia (12).
Students like Heredia see the temporary portables as a short-term change that will lead to long-term improvements.
All classrooms will be ready for students when they return from Thanksgiving break and by spring, students and staff will return to fully renovated classrooms, making the temporary move to portables a small but important step toward a safer and improved learning environment for everyone.
