Helen Keller Construction Updates

November 4, 2025 Update

Posted on Facebook - Keller Elementary School and Instagram - kellercougars

We are excited to see how our construction is moving along! The foundation has been poured and the brick walls are going up. It’s amazing to watch the progress — they’re moving quickly and staying right on track.
#togetherwecanachieve #kirbyone40 #everychildeveryday

September 19, 2025 Update

Posted on Facebook - Keller Elementary School and Instagram - kellercougars

We are thrilled to share that construction on our new addition has officially begun! It’s exciting to watch the progress unfold as this new space starts to take shape. Here are a few pictures of the work getting started. #togetherwecanachieve #kirbyone40 #everychildeveryday

On Monday, September 15, the playground will be closed in order to prepare for construction. As part of the overall plan, a new playground will be built for our students.

Additionally, to keep things running smoothly during this project, we need to adjust our dismissal procedures for walkers. Please note that bus and car rider dismissal procedures will remain the same.

Starting Friday, September 12, walker dismissal will follow these updated procedures:

• Parents who pick up walkers (west side of the school along Everdon): Please meet your child on the Everdon Drive side of the school, near the trees. Parents should wait behind the orange cones in the grassy area. Students will exit through the front of the building and be escorted to this area.
• Students who live behind the school (north side of the school): Students will exit through the front doors and walk along the sidewalk on Everdon Drive. For safety, students will not be permitted to walk along the fence line near the retention pond.
• Students who live on the front (south) of the school, crossing guard side, and walk home by themselves: These students will continue to follow their usual route along the sidewalk to the crossing guard.
• Students who live in front (south) or side (east) of the school, and parents meet to walk: Parents who walk home with their children should meet them at the drop-off zone (same location used in the morning).

A picture is included to help clarify these changes.

Thank you for your flexibility as we make adjustments to ensure the safety of our students during construction. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly.

Sincerely,
Principal Julie M. Simpson

August 22, 2025 Update

Dear Keller Families,

I’m excited to share some fantastic news – Keller is getting an addition! With the Board of Education’s approval at last night’s meeting, we’re moving ahead with a plan to improve our learning spaces and better support the day-to-day needs of our school community.

Construction on a $3.6 million addition to Keller will begin in September 2025, with completion expected by August 2026. Phase one of the project includes an eight-classroom addition to the north end of the building and the conversion of an existing classroom into additional student and staff restrooms. During the 2025–26 school year, students and staff will continue to learn and work safely in the current building, without disruption to the school day. 

To accommodate the new addition, phase two involves relocating Keller’s existing playground and adding a dedicated blacktop space for recess and bus rider arrival/dismissal. Bidding for this phase is planned for winter 2026, with construction starting in spring. Once complete, the expansion will create a more functional and comfortable environment for Keller students and staff.

This renovation reflects the District’s continued commitment to high-quality learning environments. I’m grateful to be part of a community that supports its schools and invests in the future. I’ll post regular updates on Keller’s website, Facebook, and Instagram accounts so you can follow the project’s progress.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support!

Sincerely,
Principal Julie M. Simpson

The expansion, if approved, would help us create a more functional and comfortable environment for both students and staff, better supporting the learning that takes place each day.

While these plans are still in the early stages, it’s exciting to see conversations beginning about the future of our building. I’ll continue to keep you informed as discussions progress and decisions are made.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Keller and our school community!

Sincerely,
Principal Julie M. Simpson