DPS Unveils New Earth-Friendly School For Special Education Students
DETROIT (WWJ) - The Detroit Public Schools is giving a sneak peek at its new earth-friendly school: the Williamson special education building.
The new $6.7 million dollar addition is adjacent to the East English Village Preparatory Academy and when it's completed in June nearly 100 special education students will enjoy an eco-friendly building with a purpose.
"You will see extra-large hallways and door openings that is because some of our special needs students are in wheelchairs - so every door will be able to fit a wheelchair and a person," said Carol Weaver with Detroit Public Schools.
The school district says the schools natural light within the 20,000 square foot building improves student's perception.
"It brightens up the students, it makes them feel good and you don't have to have as many light bulbs when you have natural light - we decided to incorporate many windows - each room has at least eight windows," she said.
The expansion includes a computer lab, clinic, showers and changing rooms. The use of green building material is expected to reduce student illness and asthma rates.
The building is part of new facilities built after Proposal S was approved by Detroit voters in 2009.
