Clearfield students start year at new elementary school
Aug 23, 2021, 2:54 PM
CLEARFIELD, Utah — Students at South Clearfield Elementary started their school year off in a brand-new building.
There’s more space to learn and grow, and plenty of room to train future teachers.
“This is going to blow them away. They’ve never had something like this,” said the school’s principal, Robby Kinghorn.
Brand new home of the Panthers at South Clearfield Elementary! More space to learn and grow. Students love their new school. And there’s even a Teachers Academy to train future teachers. A full recap of day 1 on KSL at Noon. #KSLTV @KSL5TV #bts #backtoschool Davis School District pic.twitter.com/NxKIfJpaei
— Tamara Vaifanua (@TamaraVaifanua) August 23, 2021
Students like sixth grader Colton Redford said they already feel at home.
“I love the brand-new building,” Redford said. “It’s so cool. There’s even a fireplace.”
The 70-year-old building has been completely transformed.
“The old one was so dark and gloomy. The one is so bright and energetic,” said Heather Chesley, parent of a student attending South Clearfield Elementary.
There’s also a teacher academy onsite.
Students from Weber State University, Utah State University and Western Governors’ University will attend classes, study and get hands-on experience in the classroom.
Parents like Chesley said the colorful space is the spark her son needs to thrive.
“I’m excited,” she said. “It’s a nice school, and he was excited. He wanted to come before school starts. So, he’s ready.”
As 560 students return this school year, compared to 330 last year, administrators said they should expect to follow COVID-19 protocols – masks are not required, but strongly recommended.
Measures Kinghorn said will keep students healthy and safe in their new digs.
“I do think there’s something when you walk into a new building, it builds self-worth within a kid. Not self-esteem, but just that worth. They’ve done this for me,” he said.