By Kiley Cuevas

A long-anticipated and substantial transformation has commenced at Poplarville Upper Elementary. Construction work kicked off on Monday, December 4th, with plans for completion before the commencement of the 2023-2024 school year. The ongoing renovations are geared towards enhancing the physical infrastructure, fostering a better learning environment, and prioritizing safety for students.

Among the planned improvements is the addition of an awning at the front, providing shelter for students during bus loading and unloading, ensuring protection from rain. A designated pick-up area with an accompanying road for car riders will be established behind the school, featuring an awning to shield students from inclement weather. Nearly a dozen rooms will see the installation of central air conditioning units, replacing outdated window units. The campus will also see the introduction of playground equipment in the backfield while the parking lot undergoes resurfacing and expansion.

Principal Mr. Judson Necaise and Assistant Principal Mrs. Michele Lee were queried about the significance of these renovations. They articulated that the transformations at PUE symbolize a considerable investment in the community’s future by the school board and district leadership. This underscores a commitment to modernizing facilities and infrastructure in alignment with current educational standards, fostering a positive learning experience. The renovations further exemplify an investment in the community’s future by creating updated functional spaces, representing a tangible manifestation of the value placed on the well-being and education of our children.