Principal’s Corner by Tonya Franks

 

Albert Lea Area Schools’ mission is to ensure individual academic, social and emotional growth that leads to engaged citizens and lifelong learners. Being an engaged citizen includes being an informed voter. Albert Lea Area Schools will have a very important bond referendum vote on May 8. Detailed referendum information can be found at www.alschools.org/referendum, including a very informative referendum FAQ, which clearly explains the ballot question.

Why is Halverson Elementary School a part of the bond referendum? Simply put, the district has a shortage of gym space and Halverson is the smallest elementary gym. Currently, Halverson is not a full-size gym. Lack of a full-size gym space limits some of the physical education activities students are able to participate in. This is turn limits the experiences Halverson students have in their formative years, compared to their peers at other elementary schools.

Physical education teachers and staff at Halverson have safety at the forefront of every lesson and activity while in the gym. Due to the confined space, some activities are not able to be safely executed. Additionally, Halverson is not able to host multi-grade level music performances for parents and the community because we do not have a large enough space to hold all of our guests. Also, at this time, Halverson’s Dance Club holds its recitals at Brookside Education Center so that one performance can be held for all guests. We do not fit in the Halverson gym.

Finally, Halverson’s building and gym are used Monday-Thursday by community organizations as well — from Boy Scouts to basketball to baseball. A full-size gym space would increase opportunities and experiences for students, families and the community. 

Another part of the proposed project at Halverson is a secured entrance.  The office space would move to the front of the building rather than in the middle of the building, where it is currently located. Relocating the office would increase security for our students and staff. With the proposed design, guests would enter the office area first. This would allow the building to remain secure throughout the day and lessen the amount of traffic through the building.

Both the proposed Halverson gym addition and office space relocation have the safety and security of Halverson students and staff in mind. Take the time to educate yourself on all facets of the bond referendum. 

Tonya Franks is the principal of Halverson Elementary School.