Palmyra Area Middle School
PennsylvaniaSince its opening in the 1930`s, Palmyra Middle School has served its community in Palmyra Pennsylvania. The school building was in good shape prior to the renovation undertaking, which began in 1997. The only exterior work required was the installation of new windows and doors. The main focus of the renovation project was to restore the interior of the oldest part of the school building. Only little restoration work was required for the interior of two additions, which were added to the school in the 1950`s and 1980`s. A new library and kitchen were also added to the school. The renovation work was completed in phases, allowing students to stay in the school building during the work.
The Palmyra Area Middle School is very dedicated to student achievement. The school`s mission is "To create a client centered school which focuses on students first, and emphasizes a close knit school community that provides positive learning experiences which promote excellence." The school also believes that an educational building must provide a positive, energized and caring environment. The modernized historic neighborhood school building does just that. The school has a media center and two computer labs, which are equipped with Internet access. In addition, Palmyra Area Middle School has a technology education program with computer-based modules that offer lessons on a wide range of subjects, including aerodynamics and robotics.
Palmyra Area Middle School students not only benefit from the new high-tech amenities in the building but also from a number of other programs. The school has a special awards program which recognizes student achievement. Students are encouraged to participate in two activities during the school year. This includes amongst other things, web page design, music, chess, hockey, rocketry, sign language and arts and crafts. In addition, the school also offers unique programs, including the Outdoor Education Program, where seventh graders participate in a week long trip to Camp Swatara. Here students benefit from hands on studies of environment and life science.
The Palmyra Area Middle School renovation was made possible in part to tax credits. The renovation work was completed by Gilbert Architects, a firm which has worked on numerous historic school renovation projects throughout the state of Pennsylvania. Today, the Palmyra Area Middle School continues to serve as a historic neighborhood school, with all the necessary high tech amenities.
Date of Construction: 1930`s
Date of Renovation: 1997 - 1998
Cost of Renovation: $9 Million
For more information contact:
Mr. Brian Good
Architect
Gilbert Architects
262 North Charlotte Street
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603
www.gilbertarchitects.com
Dr. Elke Blackburn
Superintendent
Palmyra Area School District
1125 Park Drive
Palmyra, Pennsylvania 17078
