March 2003

Ran: Corridor News (Pomerado News Group) - March 2003

Park Village Elementary begins construction on new two-story building

By Kristina Coram

The threat of yet more rain couldn't dampen the excitement at Park Village Elementary on Feb. 28 when they held a ground-breaking ceremony for their new two-story building. The event, which was originally an outdoor program, was moved into the school's multi-purpose room.

The fifth grade Penguin band, was featured. Also present were: Boy Scout Troops 675 and 623 along with school partners, the Rancho Penasquitos Kiwanis Club and Park Village PTA.

School board members and district representatives were also in attendance as was drummer Kathy Cleveland, the school's principal, provided rousing music for the program. More than 100 parents, teachers, PUSD representatives, community leaders and construction personnel were in attendance.

The building will house first and second grade classes, currently being held in portables on the school's playground.

"The building will allow us to remove the portables and reclaim much-needed playground space for more than 900 students," said Cleveland.

"In addition, students will now have greater access to technology with new labs planned in the building." The Poway Unified School District recently awarded builder Douglas Barnhart Inc with this contract and improvements at Mesa Verde Middle School.

Both projects are funded completely with Mello-Roos tax funds. These funds must only be used for school building/improvements in the taxation area.

"This building is a gift from all our parents who pay Melo-Roos taxes," said Cleveland. "This construction has been in the works for about two years. I want to thank all of our parents for helping make this a reality."

The building will allow the school to remove portable classrooms and reclaim much needed grass area for their more than 900 students. The library and administration buildings will also be expanded this summer.

The Poway Unified School District recently awarded builder Douglas E. Barnhart Inc with this contract and improvements at Mesa Verde Middle School and Highland Ranch Elementary.

Park Village Elementary originally cost approximately $6.2 million to build nine years ago. This addition is slated to cost $7.9 million now.

"The Barnhart Company is proud to be able to work on this project," said Glynna Hoekstra, senior vice president, Douglas E. Barnhart. "Our owners and many or our staff either have children in attendance at Poway schools or have attended schools here themselves."

The school has scheduled monthly Principal Chats to answer questions parents may have during the construction period. The next Chat is planned for Thursday, March 13 at 6:30 pm.

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