Allen Elementary School celebrates new library, campus renovations

Educators' hopes to improve literacy and inspire a love for learning were on display Wednesday evening at Allen Elementary School, where students and families celebrated campus renovations and the unveiling of a new library.

The school is one of dozens across the Coastal Bend that have received grant funding from Education Service Center Region 2 for library improvements.

The new library includes colorful murals depicting adventurous characters, new shelving and furniture, and a maker-space room. The grant also allowed the school to buy more than 600 new books.

The best part of the library are the books, fifth grade student Marielena Fernandez said.

"The best part, I think, about the library is the little picture on the back window that shows the characters ending their adventures," third grader Addison Fernandez said.

Beyond the new library, the entire Allen Elementary School campus was rejuvenated this year.

Last year, students from Allen Elementary School filtered into classrooms at Evans Elementary School. While they merged into one school community, the old Allen Elementary School underwent about $13 million in renovations, including an additional 14,000-square-foot expansion.

This year, the combined students moved to the new Allen Elementary School, led by new a principal, Celeste Fernandez.

The Allen Elementary School project was approved by voters in 2022, part of a $220 million bond package that also included a new southeast middle school and a Hamlin Middle School renovation.

The Corpus Christi Independent School District is currently seeking voter approval for another bond, this time to renovate King High School and Moody High School, expand Veterans Memorial High School and build two new elementary schools, as well as to support fine arts programs across the district.

CCISD Superintendent Roland Hernandez shared a presentation on the proposal during the event.

"Facility enhancements are vital to the learning environment," CCISD board of trustees President Don Clark said. "We know that renovations encourage increased attendance. ... Fresh paint and new furniture will never replace the caring individuals tirelessly serving our students every day, but they undoubtedly foster a renewed sense of pride within our school family."

Corpus Christi ISD will celebrate renovations of Dawson Elementary School on Oct. 10.

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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Allen Elementary School celebrates new library, campus renovations