It’s what’s on the Inside that Counts
I remember my parents saying that I shouldn’t judge by outward appearances that it’s what’s inside that counts.
Well, I’m pleased to say that our new high school will, by all outward appearances, be a wonderful fit for our community.
On January 25 the Board of Education agreed, formally approving the building’s design and cost estimates and authorizing the next step –preparing documents in advance of seeking bids for construction phase. We expect these bid documents to be ready in early March.
The new high school will have clean, pleasing lines and make excellent use of natural light from the many bays of windows opening into classrooms, the media center, and entranceways. The building will be placed on the property in a way that blends in with the natural beauty of the wetlands, and with a minimal impact on the environment. The 2-story layout takes advantage of a natural hill.
Yet we know that it’s what takes place on the inside that counts.
The main student entrance, facing northeast, leads into the building’s second story. To the rear, from the first floor, students can walk out to views of the pond and wetlands. The second floor entry will be a secure area, with offices for the principal, guidance counselor, community education, athletics, and the school store. From this area, access to the rest of the building will be through secured doors.
Along the second floor, students will find classrooms, the cafeteria, and the upper level of the gymnasium, which features a walking track.
On the first floor, there are more classrooms, including the nine learning labs, the media center, the lower level of the gymnasium, and an auxiliary gym.
Classrooms will be flooded with natural light from the many bays of windows facing northeast and southwest. Students in south-facing classrooms will have views of the pond and wetlands that lie to the south and west.
Physical education classes will use the main and auxiliary gyms. The main gym offers pull-out seating for 1,500, with a concession area in the lobby and locker rooms for varsity and junior varsity teams. The auxiliary gym will have seating for 200, making it a useful site for small events and practices.
In my next article, I will share with you more about the exciting learning adventures that await our students in the learning labs and media center. In these areas students will apply the new tools they will need for 21st Century learning.
Jim Hieftje
Interim Superintendent
Fremont Public School News