Senator Royce West gave remarks
The event was part of a "topping-out ceremony," where guests lined up to sign a support beam to be placed in the roof of the school, scheduled for completion by summer 2011.
Located in the city of Dallas, the new school was designed to serve 800 students in kindergarten through fifth grade. There will be 34 classrooms operating in an environmentally sustainable design which utilizes life-cycle building materials, reduces water and energy consumption and depends on more than 200 geothermal wells drilled 250 feet deep for its heating needs.
Guests were able to see the framework of the new school, as well as an eight-foot-tall display of building materials, siding and windows. This made it easier to envision the structure where children will soon come to learn, develop, grow, experiment, and play.
Musical performances were provided by two schools: the Whitney M. Young Elementary School Chorale, Vicky Brooks , Director and the Birdie Alexander Elementary School Choir, Nelda Washington, Director.
Superintendent Michael Hinojosa expressed appreciation for the successful 2008 Bond passage which made it possible to build this and other new schools.
In his remarks, Senator Royce West praised the district's progress in the southern sector of Dallas and gave assurance of future support for school success. Hutchins Mayor Artis Johnson encouraged community involvement and participation at the new school. Deputy Chief of Operations Phil Jimerson outlined project details and the construction time line.
Southeast Elementary Learning Community Executive Director Shirley Ison-Newsome served as mistress of ceremonies.
The topping-out ceremony for Wilmer-Hutchins Elementary School helped to "raise the roof" on expectations for Dallas ISD students who will attend this new school.
We appreciate State Board of Education member Mavis Knight, Wilmer Mayor Jeff Steele, University of North Texas Dallas President John Ellis Price, Larry Johnson representing Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, and former Dallas ISD Trustee Robert Price for their attendance and support.
Thanks to all who came out to participate on a bright fall afternoon filled with the sunshine of a glorious new day for young students.
