“Technology is probably one of its biggest assets,” Gilbert said.
Each classroom has an electronic smart board that interacts with a computer and allows the teacher to display material or write on the board electronically. There also are companion white boards that can be written on conventionally and wiped clean. A tack board is provided in classrooms, too, where printed material can be hung. Projectors hang from the ceilings. The building houses a wireless network.
Even when entering the school, a security vestibule allows for controlled access.
The school is designed with two academic wings: kindergarten through two and three through five. This first year, the student body will be around 460 students. Most of them (230) came from Kinder due to a planned remodeling beginning this fall. Another 120 students came from Bauer, while Medlarview provided another 90.
Placement of the school on Wood Road is to prepare for the expected population growth in the area of the Austin Road Interchange.
Strategic planning began many years ago. Gilbert said Jane Chance Elementary was designed in early 2008 and construction started in early 2009. The new school originally was estimated to cost $10.5 million. Current estimates have dropped to about $8.5 million.
The school also boasts a high-tech gymnasium with sound-deadening walls and ceiling. The basketball backboards are electric and can be raised and lowered — even their height can be changed. The gym has a full size volleyball net and wireless scoreboards.
“It could be used by community basketball leagues,” Gilbert said.
The school can be sectioned off with electronic-locking doors, allowing better control for public use.
Besides administrative and classroom space, there’s a satellite kitchen and a student dining area with a ceiling designed to look like blue sky with clouds. A special honor area is set aside for special recognitions. Dale Geyer, who was principal of Kinder, is serving as Chance’s first principal.
The PTO is planning a pool party for the incoming student body Aug. 13, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., at the Sycamore Trails Aquatic Center. An open house is set for the school on Aug. 17, the day before school opens. Those in grades kindergarten to second are invited from 6 to 7 p.m. and grades three to five from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
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