New Horizons Elementary in Wellington transforms learning landscape with unveiling of innovative Media Center
Photos: A Little Story Photography
Wellington, Florida – August 30, 2023 – The buzz is still in the air as the students and staff of New Horizons Elementary School celebrated the reopening of the school’s newly renovated media center on Tuesday. Guests in attendance at the celebration were treated to a beautiful performance by the students of the Flamenco Dance Club before being welcomed into the Media Center to see the improvements first hand.
This incredible project is the product of over a year of renovations, countless volunteer hours, and immeasurable support from volunteers and staff. It introduces much needed updates aimed at fostering enhanced student engagement, creativity, and adaptability. The project was made possible through a collaborative effort with the School District, staff, and PTA.. The removal of original bookcases, meticulous flooring and baseboard repairs, and a fresh coat of paint with inspiring wall murals were all part of this joint endeavor.
Principal Dana Pallaria states, “Our new Media Center represents a leap forward in creating an adaptable and engaging educational environment. We’re excited to showcase this space that truly caters to the diverse learning styles of our students.”
In attendance on Tuesday were Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews (District 6), Village of Wellington Mayor Ann Gerwig, Village of Wellington Town Councilmen John McGovern and Michael Drahos, Village of Wellington Village Manager Jim Barnes, CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Maria Atuña (representing the Hispanic Chamber and the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce), Sergeant M. DeJoy and various representatives of the Community Policing Department of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office along with various school business partners, key volunteers, and staff.
This transformation of the Media Center reflects the school’s commitment to creating a dynamic and adaptable learning environment that caters to the evolving needs of students. This marks a significant step toward fostering dynamic and inclusive learning environments to students in their International Spanish Academy Dual Language Program, their SECME Program, their Green Schools Program, and all students in this engaging school.
“It’s a priority for my family that our kids are bilingual. The inclusion of books in both languages helps foster a love of reading. We also love the new flexible seating, engaging Lego wall, and beautiful wall murals. It’s all here to inspire our children!” said PTA President Ana Graham.
New Horizons Elementary is proud to be one of only three elementary schools in Palm Beach County to be recognized as an International Spanish Academy (ISA) Dual Language School. Students enrolled in New Horizons Elementary School’s International Spanish Academy receive instruction in two languages – English and Spanish. The goal for students participating in this program is to exit New Horizons fully bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural. Not only are students immersed in language but also culture. We Educate, Affirm and Inspire!
If you are interested in applying to be a part of this engaging school, Choice Program applications for the 2024-2025 school year will open on November 1st, 2023 and will be available on The School District of Palm Beach County website.
