For Pinewood second through fifth grade students, the first day of school came a little later than expected this year.

On November 11th, the lower school students ventured into their new classrooms for the first time due to the completion of the new lower school building. Spearheading the building’s progress was Dr.Carolyn Baechtle who was very enthusiastic about moving into the new facility.

“I am very excited to have such a beautiful facility for the Elementary School here at Pinewood Prep. I have a feeling that the students and the teachers will appreciate it,” Baechtle, said.

The new building was patterned after the K-4 through first grade building. The rooms will feature higher ceilings, and windows in the hallway, for a more open feel. There will also be a new science lab, which many studentsare excited about.

“The new science lab is beautiful. It’s so great being in just one big room instead of having to change rooms. I can’t wait until the children see how wonderful and exciting the new lab is”, said a very excited fifth grade science teacher, Mrs. Frampton.

Some features of the new building include a “Mini Hall”, which will seat up to 100 people. This room will be open to the entire school, and it’s clubs, such as Honor Council and the Interact Club. There will also be special technological services, which include a DVD, and LCD player.

Pinewood Headmaster Dr. Cowlishaw feels that the new building will bring an updated approach on learning and the way teaching affects the children.

Contrary to popular belief, the enrollment for Pinewood’s lower school has not increased, and the reason for the new building was quite simple.

“They [rooms] were old, and too small, which created a want for a new building”, explains Dr. Cowlishaw.

Many of the lower school teachers share Dr. Cowlishaws’ sentiment.

“The kids will be pretty excited from being in those teeny rooms. They’ll be really surprised”, said second grade teacher, Mrs. Bowen.

The change is more than just a lower school advantage; the middle and high school teachers are regaining their rooms back. Certain teachers, such as Mr. ReVille Mr. Bulford generously shared rooms during the building construction. The music to Mrs. Stuart’s ears will be because she will be gaining a new music room. Old study hall rooms equipped with computers for the high school will also be returned.

Dr. Baechtle also would like to inform the student body that this is not the end for Pinewood’s expansion, and to look forward for better facilities for second to fifth grade in the future.