Parent Teacher Magazine Union County Public Schools November 2014 | Page 14

School officials plan additions to three UCPS elementary schools
that could be flexible. “Can you create a
classroom that would be for kindergarten
this year and second grade next year?”
“You would have to think about design
space that would change,” Childers added.
“As we build for the future, that is the
change we need to make. I like the idea of
being more flexible.”
Thomas said looking at new ideas was
exciting. “I want you to keep pushing us
outside the box because we wouldn’t know
what’s happening out there if it wasn’t for
you,” she said. “I want us to be very creative
with this. I think there are some things you
can give us that will accent our programs.”
Hughes said he is very optimistic about
the success of the charettes.
“We have three good firms, three good
principals and we will have three good
Walter Bickett Elementary School Principal Tom Childers, at left, shares his ideas
programs (for school additions),” Hughes
for additions to his school with architects during a charette held Monday (Sept. 15,
said. “We’re not rushing through this. We’re
2014) at the Professional Development Center. Also pictured, at right, is Director of
being time conscious. We’re keeping a good
Facilities Don Hughes.
steady pace.”
Hughes said the goal is to have all three
Charette -- a meeting in which all stakeholders in a project
additions in place by August 2016.
attempt to resolve conflicts and map solutions.
With three Union County elementary schools needing additions
--This article was written by Deb Coates