Walnut Grove Community Reception a Success

Carroll ISD hosted a special ribbon cutting and facility showcase Thursday, Jan. 26 at the new Walnut Grove Elementary School. The special event recognized the district’s newest campus located at 2520 N. White Chapel. Walnut Grove is named after the small turn-of-the-century school house that was once located nearby. The school was built by Southlake resident Bob Jones for his children to attend. Click here to read more about the campus name and property.

Guests including Carroll ISD staff and employees, Southlake city leaders, citizens and members of the community were invited to attend. As guests arrived they were greeted by the voices of the Fourth Grade Show Choir, led by Music Director Mr. David Platt. Following the performance, Walnut Grove Principal Dr. Betty McIlvain welcomed guests to the campus. Guest speakers included Carroll ISD Superintendent Dr. David Faltys, School Board President Read Ballew as well as comments from Natex Architects including Carolina Weitzman and John Haugen. There was also a special appearance by several descendants of the Bob Jones family, some of whom traveled from out of state to attend the event. Their attendance was introduced by Connie Cooley from the Southlake Historical Society. Cooley and Bob Jones relatives recounted their family’s past and thanked the district for recognizing the historical significance of the area.

Following the guest speakers, two long-time Carroll ISD teachers took to the stage for the ribbon cutting event. Debra Albertini and Debra Heath held a green ribbon and scissors to mark the official dedication of the school. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed refreshments outside the cafeteria. Food was provided by Carroll ISD Child Nutrition Services. Treats included fruit punch, cookies and a special butter cake made from Virgie Evans’ family recipe. Walnut Grove students and staff also gave campus tours to members of the community.

Walnut Grove sits on 18 acres north of Highway 114. The campus has 31 regular classrooms and 20 specialized classrooms. WGES has 72 staff members and 570 students in grades K-4. Some of the school’s unique features include geothermal HVAC systems, daylight sensors and LED lighting. The landscaping surrounding the school is also water efficient, resulting in a 20-30 percent reduction in water use. Students and teachers also tend to the campus produce garden. Walnut Grove was built for approximately $17 million dollars as part of the 2009 Bond.

Photos featured in the above slideshow courtesy of Carroll ISD Interns, Elizabeth Grizwold and Kelsey Thomas. Watch the video below provided by the Carroll ISD Communications and Marketing Department and see Walnut Grove Elementary  School from the ground breaking event to the ribbon cutting ceremony.