Arlington (WBAP/KLIF News) – When students return to school in Arlington next week, they may notice some changes. In 2014, voters approved a $663 million bond proposal, the largest ever in Tarrant County.
The bond included money to build two elementary schools in north and east Arlington, which will open this Fall.
“We wanted to get kids out of overcrowded situations, so it’s very purposeful and strategic where we’re building them,” says Superintendent Marcelo Cavazos.
Construction continues on a career and technical center, fine arts center and dual language and fine arts academies. Cavazos says the specialized campuses aim to give students more options for their education.
“These are transformative efforts that our bond was able to accelerate, but at the end of the day, it’s what happens inside those classrooms that are the most important.”
Indoor facilities for teams and bands to practice will also open at each of Arlington’s six high schools.
Thursday, Cavazos worked with teachers at West Elementary, wheeling in boxes of textbooks and helping them set up classrooms.
“It’s not the kindergarten it was when I was in school,” says teacher Amy Campagna. “There are a lot of hands-on activities, full days, no naps.”
Right now, she says teachers are getting classrooms ready so kids can start learning immediately.
“I get first day jitters, too. I’m really excited. Not one day’s the same,” Campagna says. “Every child in my classroom is there for a reason.”
(Copyright 2016 WBAP/KLIF News. All rights reserved)
