Gov. Taft helps to mark school's official opening

The site is one of 15 schools in the district's $202 million rebuilding plan.
By KANTELE FRANKO
VINDICATOR staff writer
YOUNGSTOWN -- More than 200 pupils, teachers, parents and community members joined Ohio Gov. Bob Taft Sunday at the official opening of the $7.1 million Williamson Elementary School.
Those attending were treated to a vocal performance by Williamson pupils and comments from schools Superintendent Dr. Wendy Webb, in addition to a speech by Taft.
The governor praised parents, teachers and area residents for illustrating the importance of education through their support of the school, which opened Nov. 28.
"We believe every child has the right to the best possible education, no matter where they live," Taft said.
The Williamson site is one of more than 400 new and renovated schools funded by about $4 billion from the Ohio School Facilities Commission during the past eight years, he said.
Teachers and technology
The construction of new schools throughout Ohio is a key part of improving the state's education system, but such projects also show a need for the recruitment of good teachers and the use of the latest technology, the governor said.
Williamson pupils will benefit from their share of technology, including a new computer lab, five computers in each classroom, central air conditioning and a 16-camera security system that monitors the school and parking areas.
Third-grader Ka'Vaughndalyn Hall, pupil greeter of the governor, said her favorite improvement from the old Williamson school is the increase in space.
"It isn't just squished up together anymore," she said.
The building, which was built to fit 379 pupils, also has a gym separate from the cafeteria, something the former structure didn't have.
Despite the differences, school officials are choosing to mix the past, present and future. Black marble from the old school forms a border around the stage in the cafeteria, and a piece of the same material will be used to mark the location of a time capsule in a wall across from the main office.
In the absence of Principal Linda Gianoglio, acting principal Pat Gaia invited open-house attendees to contribute something for the capsule, which later will be installed in the wall.
Bringing back pupils
District officials hope the updated school will draw pupils who have chosen to attend other community schools, said Anthony DeNiro, assistant superintendent of school business affairs.
"We're confident that we're going to get our pupils back in Youngstown City Schools, where they belong," he said.
The new Williamson Elementary is the fourth building to be completed in the district's $202 million plan involving 15 schools. Harding, Taft and West elementary schools have been completed, and work is under way at six other buildings.