A new school year is always an exciting time for students, but for fourth-grade student Ayla Beach, starting school this year holds a special significance. Ayla is eagerly anticipating the first day of school at the brand new Tomoka Elementary, a state-of-the-art building located on the school’s existing property in Ormond Beach. As she prepares to embark on this new chapter, Ayla is looking forward to meeting her teachers, engaging in her favorite activities like writing and physical education, and exploring the vibrant new campus.
During a recent tour of the school, Ayla was captivated by the school’s new colors – green and blue, which happen to be her favorites. The design of the school was inspired by Tomoka State Park and the Tomoka River, with vertical green elements representing trees and horizontal blue lines symbolizing water. Julie Roseboom, the principal of Tomoka Elementary, shared that the school’s colors were chosen based on input from students and staff, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.
In addition to the new color scheme, Tomoka Elementary also unveiled an updated mascot that pays homage to the Timucuan Indians who once inhabited the area. The mascot, a Brave, now reflects the height and traditional attire of the Timucuan people, incorporating elements of the original logo while modernizing the design. Ayla expressed her approval of the new mascot, noting how well it complements the school’s overall aesthetic.
Ayla’s mother, Courtney Beach, who is a former student of Tomoka Elementary and currently serves as the school’s PTA president, shared her excitement about the new campus. She highlighted the benefits of having students back together on a fully functioning campus, where collaboration and community spirit can thrive. The transition to the new school building marks a fresh start for both students and staff, fostering a sense of excitement and anticipation for the year ahead.
The construction of the new Tomoka Elementary was a collaborative effort involving WELBRO Building Corporation and BRPH, who provided construction management and architectural services, respectively. The project, which began in June 2023, was completed in just over a year, making it the fastest-built school in the district. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, including collaboration spaces, a spacious media center, and outdoor areas for learning and play.
The design of the new school incorporates elements of nature and local history, with Native American-inspired artwork and a tree sculpture in the media center. The school’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its low energy consumption and preservation of over 50 trees on the site. Board Chair Jamie Haynes emphasized the importance of providing students with a vibrant and technologically advanced learning environment, setting the stage for a successful academic year.
As Tomoka Elementary prepares to welcome students back for the new school year, the community is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. School board member Carl Persis, a former principal of Tomoka Elementary, expressed his deep connection to the school and his excitement for its reopening. Superintendent Carmen Balgobin commended the school’s academic achievements and dedication to excellence, highlighting the school’s continued success in the Florida Department of Education’s school and district grade report.
In conclusion, the opening of the new Tomoka Elementary represents a fresh start and a bright future for students, staff, and the community. With its innovative design, commitment to sustainability, and focus on academic excellence, the school is poised to provide a nurturing and inspiring learning environment for all who walk through its doors. As Ayla and her classmates prepare to embark on this new journey, they are filled with excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead at Tomoka Elementary.
