Thomas Dale High School - Reflector Yearbook (Chester, VA)

Page 19 text:

After a long day, Sandy Childress waits for the bus at the close of the first day of school. Finding some quiet time during lunch, Kim Mauger and Eugene Stallard look over home- work. During an exciting opening day, Mary Shmidt and Tammy Burkhalter get used to the school routine. Opening Day 15

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A “HOT” DAY A new grade, a new year, and for some a new school. Students came flowing in on August 29, for their first day of school. The weather and con- struction were the major problems this year. As the mercury rose to 95°, stu- dents and teachers found the building acquiring a resemblance to a micro- wave oven. Within the first two weeks students and teachers would be able to leave school early due to the heat. Construction was a big inconvience for everyone. Students that were ac- customed to the chorus and band rooms soon found out that they no longer existed. Classes were placed in the auditorium, cafeteria and unused rooms until the new rooms were fin- ished. The gym classes also exper- ienced a sense of loss. Due to con- struction within the gym and on the grounds, P. E. classes were held on the lawn in front of the bus ramp. Many teachers that had had the same room for years found themselves in a new room, or even a new section of the building. Another new thing this year was the change of tradition. Seniors, juniors. and sophomores were use to tradition of having homeroom after first period © in that class. This year, however, homerooms were assigned alphabeti- cally and by grade. The lunch schedule was also changed. Instead of the cus- tomary A, B, and C lunch, an A-Break-B system was introduced. Students eventually grew accus- tomed to the changes and the day went on as normal, normal, that is, for the first day of school! Sitting in class on the first day of school, this class of freshmen seem to like Thomas Dale. Enjoying their lunch, Steve Morris and Garrett Gouldin expect an exciting senior year. 14 Opening Day

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Build As the students entered the building on the first day of school, August 29, they knew the year was going to be different. In March of ’83, Hanover Construction broke ground and the building began its meta- morphasis that will not be complete until 1985. The building was designed by Car- neal and Johnston Designers and con- structed by Hanover Co. and W.O. Grubb. The construction was delayed 30-60 days because the brick masons went on strike, but the gym should be completed in January of ’84. During the renovation of the gym, sports events and gym classes have had to be held elsewhere. (B» — Adding much needed space, the guidance area is being enlarged. With the front of the school being rebuilt, parts of the office area were added to and air-condition- ed. HH With extensive renovation being done, the art and music wing is created. 16 Construction . |