Brookland, Ark. — Students in the Brookland School District will return to classes Monday with a new, state-of-the-art intermediate school campus to explore.
The Brookland Public School District officially opened the new 83,000-square-foot facility Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building features a multipurpose gym that also serves as the district’s first tornado shelter. School officials have coordinated with the city to ensure the storm-safe space will be accessible to the community in emergencies after hours, according to Superintendent George Kennedy.
“I’ve been working with the city to make sure that after hours, when there’s a warning, the city will be able to use the storm shelter,” Kennedy said. “So, that will help everyone.”
The new campus also introduces modern classroom designs that excited educators and students alike. Mandy Clark, a third-grade teacher, expressed enthusiasm for the improved learning environment her classroom provides.
“My favorite thing is our view,” Clark said. “We can look out the window and see some nature. We can probably learn, too. You know, do a little science out the window.”
Students attending the ribbon-cutting took mementos of the event home: pieces of the red ribbon. Many shared their excitement for facilities like the volleyball courts and library.
“I’m excited for the volleyball courts, and the equipment,” student Brynlee Ladd said. Fellow student Whitlee Belk plans to try out for the volleyball team and said she looks forward to playing on the new courts. Student Ellie Baugh highlighted her interest in visiting the library.
For local resident Erica Baugh, the building highlights Brookland's growth over the past generation.
“My dad’s a graduate of Brookland, I’m a graduate of Brookland,” said Baugh. “So, to see how much it’s grown since I graduated 20 years ago is amazing. It’s just nice to have a building like this to be proud of.”
In addition to the building itself, administrators redesigned the traffic loop on campus to reduce congestion during morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups.
Classes in Brookland are set to resume Monday, Aug. 17.