Transformation Unfolds: Anna Maria Elementary Creates New Learning Spaces for Students
Earlier this week, a collaborative effort between Principals Joe Hougland of Stewart Elementary and Dr. Katie Fradley of Anna Maria Elementary brought about a significant transformation at their shared school site. With seven unoccupied classrooms available, the two principals devised a plan to create dedicated learning spaces exclusively for Anna Maria students, who had previously been participating in a team-teaching model alongside Stewart students.
To make this happen, custodial teams from both schools worked tirelessly to clear out the unused rooms, cleaning and preparing the spaces for new classroom setups. Dr. Fradley coordinated the delivery of essential furniture—desks, tables, and chairs—from the district’s warehouse, ensuring the rooms were properly equipped.
In addition to preparing the classrooms, the district’s Early Learning Department secured brand-new educational materials for the Pre-K class. Games, books, and learning tools were delivered, turning the empty spaces into vibrant environments designed to foster learning and development.
By Wednesday afternoon, the transformation was in full swing. Curriculum specialists from the district joined forces with the custodial teams, teachers, and both principals to move furniture and finalize classroom setups. The effort to create a welcoming space for Anna Maria students was evident as they bid farewell to their Stewart classmates and moved into their new, more intimate learning environments.
While the students adjusted to the change, Anna Maria teachers assured them they would still be able to see their Stewart friends during lunch, recess, and special activities like art and physical education. In a touching moment, a second-grade teacher gathered her students and used sign language to reinforce the bond between them, reminding them, “We are family.”
By Thursday morning, the new classrooms were fully operational, and the transition was smooth. Acts of kindness emerged, including thoughtful gifts from fourth-grade student Savannah, who made handmade bracelets for her classmates and teachers. The colorful bracelets, adorned with encouraging words and charms, became symbols of friendship and unity.
Meanwhile, Media Specialist Becky Demo worked to ensure that a beloved tradition at Anna Maria continued in their temporary setting—weekly reading sessions with therapy dogs. Students from various grades welcomed their furry reading companions, including dogs like Diamond, Velvet, and Zinnia, who listened attentively as the children read aloud, bringing a sense of calm and comfort to the new environment.
With the support of dedicated staff, students, and community members, Anna Maria Elementary has successfully created a new home for learning, preserving the sense of normalcy and connection that makes the school community so special.