Mansfield ISD Magazine Fall 2017 | Page 22

MISD Dedicates Two New Buildings T he community gathered to formally unveil the completed construction of two Mansfield ISD schools on Sept. 30. Charlotte Anderson Elementary School was first built in 1986. It is the fifth and final elementary school campus to be reconstructed after a successful 2011 bond election, which completed the district’s goal of bringing equity to its elementary school campuses. Staff, students, parents and community members came out in great numbers to the dedication of the new Anderson Elementary School building. The new two-story facility made its debut to staff and students for the 2017-18 school year. It has the capacity to house up to 800 students, leaving room for future growth within the district. “Our family does not just reach out to the walls of our beautiful new building. Our relationships touch far beyond even our attendance zone,” said Principal Sheira Petty. “The attendance at our Charlotte Anderson Elementary dedication was a perfect example of how close our community is with our school.” Namesake Jerry Knight (second from the right) was in attendance to experience what the STEM Academy will offer to MISD learners. The Jerry Knight Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Academy first opened its doors in August 2017. It is an advanced academic program designed to provide a rigorous and focused course of study emphasizing science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The campus is currently available for sixth-graders. Enrollment will expand each year to seventh and then eighth-graders. The mission of the academy is to give learners a voice and choice to explore, create and innovate within real-world situations. “It is amazing to see the support that STEM receives from the Mansfield ISD community. It’s seen not only in the attendance at our dedication ceremony, but also through the feedback and volunteerism from Learners at the STEM Academy performed and helped guide the tours. our parents, and the willingness of district personnel outside of our building who help prepare our learners and our facility for instruction. Everyone working together is really the only way we can provide our learners with unique learning opportunities,” said Associate Principal Victoria Webster. After each ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to receive a tour of the new facilities. 20 Mansfield School & Family