School Dedications Mark Milestone in 2023 Bond Program

Sherman ISD celebrated a major milestone in the 2023 bond program on Sept. 6 as campus and district leaders formally cut the ribbon on the new Crutchfield, Fairview and Parker elementary schools. Representatives from each campus, the School Board, VLK Architects, CORE Construction, the City of Sherman and Sherman Chamber of Commerce helped SISD mark the occasion, as the district welcomed the general public to tour each building for the first time.

New campuses for Crutchfield Elementary and Fairview Elementary opened this fall to replace buildings built in the 1950s. Parker Elementary is a brand-new campus and opened this fall in northwest Sherman.

The new schools were overwhelmingly approved by voters in May 2023 and built without an increase in the tax rate due to the high-tech industry growth in Sherman.

“The 2023 election represented a commitment to our local public schools and the future of the young people of this community,” said Superintendent Dr. Thomas O’Neal. “These new schools will serve generations of Sherman students and were built so that they can evolve and adapt with the times.”

Each dedication ceremony included brief remarks and a performance from students before community members were invited to explore the schools’ modern learning spaces.

All three campuses can accommodate up to approximately 700 students and include flexible spaces for student collaboration and hands-on learning for each grade level. Each school also has the latest technology and safety features, including secure outdoor spaces, gyms that serve as storm shelters rated for wind speeds up to 250 mph, and upgraded security vestibules that allow the front office to monitor all visitors.

Crutchfield Elementary has an outdoor science space for fifth graders on its second floor, allowing quick access for interactive lessons and experiments with tangible outcomes. There are also multiple other outdoor areas and playgrounds for classes to use.

“This new campus is more than a fresh start. It is a promise,” said Crutchfield Elementary principal Rebecca McCright. “As a community, we will ensure every child is known, loved and challenged to reach their highest potential.”

Like the old campus, the new Fairview Elementary has an outdoor courtyard. Brick dedication pavers from the old courtyard have been relocated to the new one, with room to add more in the future. Wood from bench seating at the old campus was also incorporated into the new reception area.

“Our students and staff have been so excited for this new building. It’s been amazing to explore the new possibilities and opportunities for our students in the larger spaces,” said Fairview Elementary principal Julee West. “The future of Fairview is bright, and I can’t wait to see how our Falcons will continue to soar.”

Like the other elementary campuses, Parker Elementary has a dedicated music classroom that opens to the cafeteria stage for easy access during class and special events. The art room also has access to a covered outdoor space, allowing students to build their natural creativity. 

“Our students have loved walking these bright hallways and discovering all the spaces designed just for them,” said Parker Elementary principal Ashley Woods. “Our teachers have embraced this new beginning with enthusiasm, and together we are creating a strong foundation for learning.”

At the Parker dedication event, school namesakes David and Paula Parker reflected on the tremendous honor of having a school named after them. The Parker Elementary school song, written by music teacher Priscilla Burns, debuted for the first time. 

Sherman ISD is grateful to voters for their support of the 2023 bond program and looks forward to all the new opportunities available to our students and staff.

Crutchfield Elementary Photos   Fairview Elementary Photos   Parker Elementary Photos