Kagman school ready by Aug. 1

At a distance, one could mistake it for an amusement center much like Disney World shimmering with bright colors. But the $6 million Kagman Elementary School situated in the district of Kagman is, after all, a learning institution with well-conceptualized architecture and modern amenities.

Pac United Construction Project Manager Russell Villoria yesterday unveiled what could be CNMI’s most modern public school targeted to serve generations of CNMI students within the next 40 years.

Approximately 90 percent complete, the elementary school now boasts of eight artistically designed buildings to hold a maximum of 675 students.

Fully-airconditioned, the 27-classroom campus can accommodate 25 students per classroom, equipped with desks, a common sink, and shelves.

Each building is labeled using letters of the alphabet and identified with a color motif all its own.

“It’s all color-coordinated — the doors match the tiles and sinks, and shelves,” said Public School System Project Manager of Construction Don Dolenec.

Each building is also furnished with a pair of common toilets save for one building which has a built-in restroom in each classroom, for the youngest grade schoolers.

The school also features a 675-capacity cafeteria, a library, and room to accommodate more than 30 computer units.
In addition, students will also be provided their own lockers.

The campus is also complete with spacious parking area, a baseball field, and basketball court.

Kagman school is also situated amid a spectacular view of the ocean, very conducive for learning.

Submitting to federal requirements, wheelchair ramps are also in place, accessible for students with disabilities.

“This campus is 100 percent ADA compliant,” said PSS Administrative officer Yvonne Atalig.
The structures are also expected to withstand typhoons as for the first time, PSS has approved the installation of sophisticated typhoon shutters in all classroom windows.

National Office Supply, the contractor for the equipment needed for the campus, is set to install the desks, chairs, lockers, and cabinets by July 24.

The campus is expected to be ready for occupancy by August 1, 2000 in time for the August 7 school opening.

“The contractor is very committed to finish the project within 45 days,” said Ms. Atalig.
According to the project manager, the campus now only lacks power supply,
“Once that’s already in, we can do some test balancing for the equipment and airconditioning. This is only a minor touch up and the water proofing here also. So I have to full blast my men to work overtime, even Sundays and holidays they’re working and they have to extend their time in order to beat the deadline,” said Mr. Villoria.

Compared to other mainland schools, Mr. Dolenec has commented that Kagman Elementary School is equal or better as far as amenities and the quality of construction is concerned. (MM)