New Commons Building

For the past several months, numerous sections of Palmer High School have been under construction, specifically for upgrading Palmer into the group of 21st century schools. Most notable, the construction of the new commons has attracted much attention. The new commons will have its grand opening on March 10th, finally becoming available for both student and public use. At last, odors from tar around the school will be a thing of the past, and the accommodations of the new commons can finally be enjoyed.

In interviews with Mr. Robert Framel (Director of Athletics and Business Manager) and Mr. Angelo Martinez (Head of Maintenance), contents of the new commons, and further construction of Palmer High School were addressed. “With the help of recent bonds from D11, renovations and construction projects have been made possible here at Palmer High School. In one of the more recent bonds, Palmer received a $5,756,640 budget for making both interior and exterior improvements. Out of that $5.7 million, roughly $2,330,640 went towards the new commons area” (located between the tech building and 1st floor cafeteria/commons), stated by Mr. Framel. (These figures and bonds are available for viewing at the main D11 homepage, or at Bond Figures)

The new commons will contain many new features that were previously unavailable in the other commons. Furthermore, the new additions being made in the new commons will definitely keep Palmer on the right path for attaining a 21st century school atmosphere.

From the moment you walk into the new commons from any of the three entrances, the increase of space and open area will be astonishing. According to a comment made by Mr. Framel; “With the expansion of the original commons with the new commons, the two areas together will accommodate around 350 to 400 people.” In addition to the increase in occupancy within the commons, the food within the cafeteria will improve as well. “Not only will the quality of the food enhance, but the variety and choice of foods will noticeably increase as well.” Also, many new technological improvements are now available in the new commons for personal use. One such improvement is the addition of numerous internet ports (24 to be exact) all located along the walls in the new commons. Sadly, Wi-Fi won’t be available at this time; however it remains under consideration.” The district will also allow the new commons to be available for public use by means of rent. Public seminars, clinics, large meetings and presentations, are just a few of the adopted ideas for the purpose of renting the commons. Referencing an earlier comment made by Mr. Angelo Martinez, “On the main wall, there will be two mounted 52inch LCD flat panels, and an 18foot projector screen for use with the mounted LCD projector. The two flat panel screens will be hooked up via cable TV, and Terror TV will be available for viewing on Fridays.”

However, aside from the new commons, further construction and development is expected. Alongside the exterior of Palmer, rod iron fencing has enclosed particular areas of the building. In addition, the overall landscaping throughout the campus is being dramatically subject to change. Mr. Angelo Martinez sited that, “In the near future, the courtyard is expected to be re-landscaped, with many new benches and other amenities selectively placed throughout the campus.” Lastly, the possibility of a coffee shop being added into the new commons is presently under consideration.