Franklin Elementary STEAM Magnet Program Continues to Progress
The hard hats were on, and markers were out at Franklin Elementary STEAM Magnet School this past November, as the campus modernization reached a major milestone. Franklin Elementary students joined incoming San Diego Unified School District Board of Education Trustee Shana Hazan, alumni, and staff in signing the final steel beam for the future two-story classroom facility. The group celebrated as construction crews hoisted the beam into place.
“As an incoming board trustee and a parent of two students at Franklin Elementary, I couldn’t be more excited to watch as the beam was hoisted into place on a project long awaited by this community,” Hazan said. “What a great way to kick off my time as a board trustee for San Diego Unified.”
“It’s monumental,” said Franklin Elementary Principal Melissa Roy-Wood. “Our fourth-and fifth-grade students will be promoted to middle school by the time construction ends, so this was a great way for them to leave their legacy.”
When complete, the new classroom facility will include collaborative workspaces, a staff lounge, and a student food services kitchen. The kitchen is part of an expanded student dining area that will be complete with a shade canopy. Outdoor improvements include renovated kindergarten and upper-grade playgrounds with shaded play structures, a learning garden with a shade canopy, and a bioretention basin with landscaping.
Campus wide safety will be improved with a monitored single point of entry, modern public address/intercom system, security cameras, intrusion and fire alarm systems, and secure perimeter fencing.
“Our priority at San Diego Unified is to provide students with safe and innovative campuses that not only inspire them to succeed, but help cultivate a sense of belonging,” Superintendent Dr. Lamont Jackson said. “We are thrilled to give the Franklin community a glimpse of what’s to come – a beautiful, state-of-the-art classroom facility where all students can thrive.” Construction is anticipated to complete in late 2024.
Category: Architecture, Education, Events, Local News, Students, Technology
