Source: NurPhoto / Getty
The first new public elementary school built in North Philadelphia in more than 70 years is opening its doors to students Wednesday.
According to the school district, the Thomas M. Peirce school is a 77,000-square foot building that is said to cost about $44 million.
The old Thomas M. Peirce, which was built in 1909, was shut down about four years ago.
Elected leaders paired with the school district of Philadelphia at 23rd and West Cambria Streets to cut the ribbon for new Thomas M. Peirce School in December.
“I graduated from this school in 1969, and it’s so wonderful to see these children have a building like this.” Terry Rembert, the grandparent of a current T.M. Peirce student, said.
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Source: NurPhoto / Getty
As students are excited to be entering a brand new school, Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington expressed that there are more important factors of the Thomas M. Peirce school than just the architecture.
“A new building is not just about cosmetic good looks, although that’s important, it gives us state-of-the-art learning facilities. If you go into these classrooms, they have fresh air systems, great lighting, the furniture is flexible so it can be moved around. It helps to facilitate the learning style of our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington.
The superintendent said that while there are currently only about 200 students enrolled in T.M. Peirce.
This story originally appeared on 6abc.
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