Dallas ISD’s William L. Cabell Elementary School celebrated its transformation into a Personalized Learning campus on Wednesday, April 19.
Parents, community members, district staff and representatives from organizations involved in the project attended the event, which included a campus tour after songs performed by fifth-graders and a ceremonial ribbon cutting.
The physical structure of the school has changed to accommodate the different style of learning, which focuses on the education of individual students.
Several classrooms feature dividers that can be opened to create a larger learning environment, combining classes for core lessons. Adaptive furniture that moves easily – including computer desks connected to stationery bicycles – help teachers and students customize classrooms to cater to particular projects. What used to be solid walls lining the hallways is now a mix of clear and frosted glass panels. The library has been renovated but now features the ability to become a “makers’ space,” where students can build and create.
The cafeteria has been transformed with bright wall murals featuring messages touting healthy habits and also new tables.
A garden in the school’s courtyard continues to flourish as an outdoor classroom.
Building changes were funded through the Interim Bridge Plan, which the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees approved during the 2015-2016 school year. About $148 million was approved to address critical needs at district schools.
