Despite Construction, Oakton Elementary Focuses on Learning

While students and staff took a winter holiday, construction crews removed ceiling tiles and grids in the hallways, and installed environmental control and safety fencing to kick off the long-awaited renovation.

But the school's 700 students have been back for more than a month, and the school has put much effort into making the construction as minimally disruptive as possible.

"Maintaining an effective learning environment is very important. The work during the school day takes place outside. After school hours, the renovation crew is able to work inside," said Christine Gray, principal.

Fourth-grade teacher Sylvia Padron Walenius said things are going well for the upper elementary school in "the Oaks," the area where trailers, or quads, are being used as classrooms.

“We are a tight-knit community, like a family,” she said, “and everyone is excited. It’s been a really smooth transition and everyone is working together to make it work.”

Gray said the renovation — originally scheduled to break ground in October 2010 — was delayed until late December because of weather and permits. “We are relieved it’s under way,” she said. “The students are excited about seeing things change on a daily basis.”

Planned since 2008 and funded by a bond referendum supported by Fairfax County taxpayers, the is expected to be complete in October 2012.  It will expand the school size from 71,000 to 91,600 square feet. Architects maintained the integrity of the original school; Gray says, including the auditorium, a space beloved by the school community. Building updates will include high-efficiency boilers, low volatile organic compounds finishes, security systems, fire suppression, voice and data, electrical, HVAC, roof vents, upgraded finishes, windows and flooring.  And, of course, updated classroom.

“Everyone is looking forward to the bright, new learning spaces for the students,” Gray said.

Sixth-grader Kenan Besen, who serves on a student committee to help oversee the project, said reviewing the blueprints was “cool.” His only complaint is the construction means the short-term loss of the soccer field. But his overall perspective is for the long-term good: “We don’t like losing the field, but whatever needs to be done.”

Communicating renovation news is a school priority. Cathy Wasilweski, parent of a sixth-grader and a third-grader and president of the PTA, said the school is doing a great job keeping families informed.

“We get letters sent home as well as Keep In Touch announcements [email updates],” she said.  “And the principal writes a blog to update us on the progress.” 

The construction plan’s first phase includes building a new office, a media center and several classrooms to be completed by the end of 2011.  

The renovation required removing several older trees on the property but the plan is to replant and increase the number.  “It was hard to see them go,” Gray said.