Series #6: What do you think about this bond issue topic?
Q: What are the advantages of a single site elementary school?
A: The advantages of a single site elementary are many. Here are a few to consider.
· A single site elementary allows for consistent class sizes. Currently, classroom size varies by building. It is not uncommon to have a classroom at one building with 17 students while the same classroom in another building has more than 20. A single site elementary would allow these numbers be in balance, giving all students the advantage of smaller class sizes.
· A single site elementary would allow grade level teachers to collaborate and plan together to ensure consistency of instruction for all children.
· A single site elementary would give students similar experiences at each grade level.
· A single site elementary would allow all students to experience an inclusive environment similar to Middle and High School. Currently, specialized programs are localized in a few buildings.
· A single site elementary would eliminate the need to transport students to a different school because of programming needs or overcrowding at a certain grade level.
· A single site elementary would allow for efficiencies in building use and staffing:
o Eliminate loss of time for staff that currently travel between buildings.
o Administration assigned to a building full-time rather than split between two buildings.
o Defined gym space would allow better scheduling of facilities for optimum use.
o Because students would not be moved to other buildings for program needs, staffing adjustments and changes would be easier to accomplish.
· A single site elementary would be more efficient:
o Mechanical systems have improved/are more efficient than when the existing buildings were constructed.
o A new facility would be designed for 21st Century learning and technology.
o Eliminate student transportation to other buildings because a program need wasn’t available in their home attendance center.