GREENSBORO, N.C. — With the first day of school for Guilford County Schools students fast approaching, some returning to their old campuses might notice some things seem completely different.
One of the new schools that will feel brand new this year is Claxton Elementary, which was completely rebuilt thanks to funding from a $1.7 billion project bond.
Here's a look at some of the new things Claxton is able to offer its students.
Gym
In years past, students at Claxton Elementary would have gym class in a large, open classroom in the school's oldest building. Now, they have a new gymnasium space complete with roll-out basketball hoops and space for other athletic equipment as well.
This is the first time in the school's history that it will have a designated gymnasium.
Cafeteria
Claxton's designated eating space for its students also received a major upgrade, as there's now a new open layout to the cafeteria. Students will be allowed to sit with whomever they want during their designated lunch period instead of being limited to just their classmates.
Some classrooms in the new Claxton Elementary will have a view of the cafeteria from a balcony overlooking the space.
Library
Sitting at the heart of the rebuilt Claxton Elementary is the library, which is surrounded by classrooms on both its first and second floors.
One of the biggest new features of the library are the Reading Steps, which can act as a new venue for an entire class or a spot for an individual to read in peace. There is also plenty of additional sitting throughout the space.
Fourth walls
In each individual classroom, there will be sliding glass doors that teachers can open or close at their discretion. Outside of classrooms on each floor are extra learning spaces for students to sit outside their class door and work on assignments.
This could be particularly effective for teachers who like to break their classes into small groups, as there should now be enough space to accommodate each student without feeling cramped.
The "Fourth Walls" also give Claxton Elementary a more open layout than it had in the past.
Promethean Panels
Another resource available in every classroom are new Promethean Panels, which are essentially large touch-screen computers that allow teachers to educate their students in new and exciting ways.
Promethean Panels are also mobile, meaning they can be wheeled between classrooms, into the hallways or anywhere else they might be needed on campus.
Promethean Panels are comparable to Smartboards.
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