Classroom Space
by Kyle McGowan
April 15, 2008
The middle school bond was approved in the fall of 2002. Creating a middle school was appropriate for the educational needs of this age group as well as relieved significant crowding issues occurring at the elementary and high school. The middle school was designed to allow for additional growth, if needed. Therefore, each annual budget has included dollars in anticipation of a future expansion. One major question requiring any possible middle school addition is the potential impact of the traffic surrounding the area. The City of Crete and school district continue to collaborate in reviewing this question. After a traffic decision is formulated, the Board will review space needs and seek input from patrons.
The short term (2-3 years) classroom space needs could be addressed with the purchase of portable buildings placed at the elementary and another placed at the middle school. The current state aid formula allows reimbursements for elementary classrooms with 20 or fewer students. The current average class size at the elementary is approximately 24 students with the largest classroom having 26 children and the smallest having 22 students. The Board had already approved a sixth section of First Grade for next year.
The addition of a 24’ X 60’ portable would create two extra classrooms. Since this solution would be considered short term, the district has been investigating various used portables existing in Dorchester and Lincoln Public Schools. The financial savings of a used structure is significant and the buildings are in very good shape. The principals at the elementary and middle school will have the flexibility to meet with their staffs and determine what programs may best be served within these additional classrooms. However, making those decisions is somewhat dependent on the enrollment projections for the next school year. Please feel encouraged to personally contact me if you have any questions on this topic or others related to Crete Public Schools.
