New York may be the city that never sleeps, but Mesa Public Schools is the district that never rests.
A tremendous amount of planning and preparation takes place to ensure a smooth opening in August. Employees worked through the summer renovating and improving school campuses to prepare them for the new school year.
Some of the changes are visible, while others impact the environment and comfort levels of students and staff members. Here is a snapshot view of some of the improvements.
Security is a top priority
A visit to a school campus will reveal visible security updates, including increased fencing around the school perimeter. This fencing ensures all visitors enter through the front office. Enhanced camera systems at schools alert district security staff to potential issues, day or night.
A new visitor management system on elementary campuses streamlines the check-in process, replacing sign-in sheets and logbooks. Parents and visitors check in at a kiosk. Each adult swipes his driver’s license, the built-in camera snaps a picture, and a temporary visitor’s sticker is printed. The system automatically logs the visit, and can alert staff of any security risks.
Something new is cooking in the kitchen
Irving and Whitman elementary schools received major kitchen remodels. Existing spaces were redesigned to optimize layout and maximize productivity, with new flooring, ceilings, lighting and equipment. “The kitchens are absolutely beautiful,” Loretta Zullo, director of food and nutrition, stated. “It has been a long time since they received attention. The renovations will make for a more pleasant dining experience for our students and working environments for our employees.”
Are you ready for some football?
During the summer, concession stands at six high schools underwent extensive renovations, thanks to the voter-approved bonds. Updates to visitor facilities are sure to delight folks when they experience new sinks, water systems, bathroom improvements and new windows. There also are new shaded extensions on the roof of the buildings, as well as the addition of air conditioning.
It’s all chill
The installation of two new chilling towers on the Red Mountain High School campus will cool the main academic and performing arts buildings more efficiently and improve the air quality, leading to improved concentration. “The past couple of years, the units were on a decline and going out on a weekly basis,” said Jim Gowdy, athletic director. “The new system is working great.”
For more information regarding Mesa Public Schools, please visit our district Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mpsaz.