Building a Better Future

The future of education in the Canon-McMillan School District is taking shape as construction continues on the new Wylandville Elementary School.

The project is part of the District's long-term facilities plan, which previously included the construction of Muse Elementary and the middle school. As enrollment has continued to grow, District leaders have identified the need for additional space and updated facilities to better serve students.

The new, state-of-the-art school will combine Wylandville Elementary and Borland Manor Elementary, helping to alleviate overcrowding and create new opportunities throughout the District.

For Shannon Balch, principal of Wylandville Elementary, the project impact extends beyond the physical building.

“It's about creating a space where students can thrive, and the community can come together to learn and grow," Balch said.

The new building will provide dedicated classrooms and learning spaces, allowing students and staff greater flexibility and access to resources. Those opportunities include expanded instructional spaces, specialized programming, updated technology and dedicated areas designed specifically for student learning.

One of the most significant changes will be to specialized student services. Currently, some students receiving support through programs such as autistic life skills or therapeutic emotional support must attend schools outside their neighborhood building. With the new Wylandville Elementary, many will be able to receive these services closer to home and attend school in their own community school.

The school will also feature two playgrounds, outdoor learning areas, collaborative team rooms and state-of-the-art technology throughout the building. Additional plans include a multipurpose field that can also be used by the community.

While construction continues, District leaders are already preparing for the transition. Balch and Borland Manor Principal Dr. Matthew Wolfe have launched a joint newsletter to keep staff informed and gather feedback from internal stakeholders. Teacher leadership teams from both schools are also helping develop routines, procedures and programs that will shape the culture of the new building.

"We're trying to get as much stakeholder voice as we can so that people feel part of the process and part of the planning," Balch said.

Students have also embraced the excitement surrounding the project. Balch recalled seeing children arrive at school dressed as construction workers and engineers during Halloween festivities, inspired by the cranes, steel structures and crews they see working each day.

Once students move into the new building, the current Wylandville school will be demolished to make room for additional parking and outdoor spaces.

"It will be so exciting to bring the communities together," she said. "Seeing all the students experience this brand-new building and all of these new spaces that we've worked hard to plan will be a full-circle moment."