Sheppard AFB Elementary receives new look

Construction workers renovate the Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, Elementary school July 31. The $1.5 million project for Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary ushers in a new gym, new clinic, larger circle drive, new facade, entryway and all new paint themes throughout the school. The school's upgrade included electrical, heating and air conditioning systems. Principal Marvin Peevey planned and executed all the improvements with the funds provided from the 2006 Wichita Falls School Bond election. (U.S. Air Force photo/Debi Smith)

Sheppard AFB Elementary receives new look

Bulldozers and construction crews renovate the exterior of the elementary school at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas July 30. Improvements to the entry, driveway, clinic, classrooms, hallways and electrical systems evolved from a 2006 Wichita Falls School Bond election which delivered $1.5 million for an the upgrades to Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary. (U.S. Air Force photo/Debi Smith)

Sheppard AFB Elementary receives new look

Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary receives massive renovation July 31 at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. "It's an extreme school makeover," Sheppard Elementary School Principal Marvin Peevey said. From the 2006 Wichita Falls School Bond election, more than $1.5 million has improved almost every aspect of the school for Sheppard students, staff and families for the 2010 school year. (U.S. Air Force photo/Debi Smith)

Sheppard AFB Elementary receives new look

With a 2010 school year theme, 'A New Year, A New Look,' the elementary school at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, displays the new school name of Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary Aug 5. The new facade is just part of the $1.5 million renovation the building received over the summer. The new infrastructure, clinic, larger circle drive and entryway for Sheppard's elementary school are the result of the 2006 Wichita Falls School Bond election. (U.S. Air Force Photo courtesy/Marvin Peevey)

Sheppard Elementary gets a $1.5 million facelift

Published Aug. 6, 2010
By Debi Smith
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Amongst the clamor of a bulldozer and work crews, there is the silent evidence of paint beginning to dry and new tile setting at Sheppard Elementary. For Sheppard's school family, the excitement isn't just about new school clothes and supplies. They'll be walking in to a whole new school.

The Wichita Falls school bond election of 2006 reaped huge benefits for the staff, students families and future students at Sheppard. Awarded $1.5 million, the school principal was able to select priorities and projects necessary for the base school.

Marvin Peevey, Sheppard Elementary principal, beams with pride and excitement when he talks about the future.

"Our theme is a new year with a new look," Mr. Peevey said. "I got to help plan and design, select the colors of the paint and tile, and see it all implemented. It's really an extreme school makeover. It was very important to me to add Air Force Base to the school building's name. We've always gone by Sheppard Elementary, but it is Sheppard Air Force Base's Elementary School."

This year, students will welcome a new gym; a larger clinic; new electrical, heating and air conditioning systems; a new building façade and spacious entryway.

"We had an original 1950's hallway which was very nostalgic but outdated," Mr. Peevey said. "Students will now enjoy all new colors in the school with the old porcelain drinking fountains and radiators taken out. It means a fresh start and a modern school appearance."

Other improvements include supply rooms, so books don't have to be housed behind the stage curtains; a new teacher's lounge and principal's office; and a widened circle driveway.

Mr. Peevey said, 'we have the largest Partners in Education program in the school district. The calls keep coming in from former staff, parents and students who are excited to see the new developments.

Our parents and the base personnel are so helpful and willing to offer anything to us. These improvements will make all the difference as more and more of our curriculum will be technology based. Our environment will now match our contemporary studies and everyone is excited."

Click here to see Mr. Peevey talk about the anticipation for a great 2010 school year.

Dreaming big comes naturally for Sheppard's principal. He sees the school cafeteria as his next project.

Other great news came this week for the 340 students enrolled for 2010. The Texas Education Agency accountability ratings for Texas schools recognized Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary with the highest ranking of Exemplary. Sheppard was one of seven in the Wichita Falls Independent School District to receive an Exemplary rating.