Holyoke School Committee Showcases Modern Facilities and Innovative Features at Pek School
- Meeting Overview:
The recent meeting of the Holyoke School Committee provided an in-depth look at the newly designed Pek School, emphasizing its state-of-the-art facilities and educational enhancements aimed at fostering a dynamic learning environment. The committee members were taken on a comprehensive tour of the facility, focusing on its functional design tailored to diverse student needs, alongside discussions about the gymnasium, cafeteria, and outdoor spaces.
The tour began at the main entrance of Pek School, where the director of facilities and maintenance highlighted the building’s architectural innovations. Members observed the main foyer’s cloud lighting systems and smoke and fire doors, emphasizing safety and aesthetic appeal. Classrooms throughout the school are equipped with keypad systems and feature modular furniture to facilitate both group and individual learning. Each classroom includes accessible sinks and water fountains, large windows for natural light, and adjustable lighting systems to enhance the educational atmosphere. Notably, the seventh-grade hallway diverges in design with a focus on literature in its mini media center and a distinct color scheme of blues and yellows.
A point of interest was the gym and cafeteria spaces, which are separated by a soundproof, retractable wall, allowing for simultaneous use. The gym boasts full basketball and volleyball setups, with outdoor half-courts providing additional recreational space. The cafeteria is equipped with modern kitchen facilities, theatrical lighting, and sound systems to support various school events. The adjacent music room, designed for small groups, offers direct access to the stage.
The tour proceeded to the STEM and arts areas. The art room features soundproof garage doors for transporting large projects, while the STEM lab includes similar accessibility enhancements. Additional facilities such as the occupational therapy room with specialized flooring, fitness room, and media center were noted for their contributions to a comprehensive educational experience.
Safety and functionality were recurring themes, with emergency showers and eyewash stations in science classrooms, and a generator ensuring continuous operation during power outages.
Outdoor learning environments were also highlighted, with a covered courtyard offering modular furniture for adaptable outdoor classes. The school grounds include safe, gated access to Croer Field, complete with ADA-compliant pathways.
The innovative infrastructure and technology incorporated at Pek School are poised to provide a supportive and engaging environment for students and the community.
Anthony Soto
School Board Officials:
Joshua A. Garcia, Erin Brunelle, Mildred Lefebvre, Gustavo O. Romero, Rosalee Tensley Williams, Dr. Yadilette Rivera Colón, Dr. Gloria Caballero-Roca, John G. Whelihan, William R. Collamore, Ellie Wilson
-
Meeting Type:
School Board
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
-
Recording Published:
10/30/2025
-
Duration:
22 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Massachusetts
-
County:
Hampden County
-
Towns:
Holyoke
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 12/06/2025
- 12/06/2025
- 50 Minutes
- 12/06/2025
- 12/06/2025
- 115 Minutes