Harlem has welcomed many new renovations and changes to the high school this school year: a new addition for the trades pathway, an improved foods classroom, and last but not least, renovations to the Pawprints Preschool class. The class gives students an opportunity to work one on one with preschoolers in a classroom environment. The renovations to the preschool classroom took place over the summer and gave a whole new look to the classroom space.

The classroom is now situated so that there is an area for the high school students to learn and a separate area for the Pre-K students to have class. New materials and additions like tables, sinks, and bathrooms have made the space easier to use.

“The shape of our classroom changed. We have our area in front, and to the right is the preschool area,” said Nevaeh Padilla, 11, a student currently in the class.

Old equipment was updated and areas were made to store materials so that more space could be used for the class.

“They’ve helped [to] have more room and storage and for things to not be so crowded and better materials,” said Averey Anderson, 11, who is also taking the class this year. “Everything was so outdated…the tables and chairs were so small.”

The changes have made the room more functional for the preschool students as well as more realistic for the high schoolers looking for experience in a classroom. They’ve added new bathrooms and sinks that are more accessible for the younger students as well as an observation window for the high school students.

“I want to say they’re more preschool friendly. Their cubbies are different colors, everything just looks brighter and it’s not so crammed,” said Padilla.

The next step for the education pathway is to get funding for a playground. With the changes, the class will continue to give future teachers opportunities.

“It’s going to allow students that want to become teachers to have the experience,” said Anderson.

The renovations have given a new look to the classroom and updates that will allow it to continue to be a learning opportunity for students.

“The renovations have brightened up the space, added great storage and has given others a chance to get a look inside what Paw Prints is all about,” said Mrs. Hubley, who teaches the class. “The space has been existing as it formerly was for as long as the program existed in the building. This was a great face lift!”