posted November 16, 2006
The County School Board on Thursday night voted to approve Calvin Donaldson Elementary School as an environmental magnet school.
Rhonda Thurman, a foe of magnet schools, cast the only No vote.
Carla Riddle, magnet schools director, said a group of parents made the request.
She said UTC, UTK and the EPA have all vowed to work with the school.
Ms. Riddle said Charlie Arant, president of the Tennessee Aquarium, also pledged the help of the Aquarium. Mr. Arant was present at the meeting to support the request.
Ms. Thurman asked if 21st Century Academy is not also an environmental magnet school.
Ms. Riddle said that is one of its focuses, but it also deals with global and futuristic issues.
She said at Calvin Donaldson "the whole curriculum will be heavily involved" with environmental matters.
Rick Smith, associate superintendent, said the magnet school program started in 1998.
He said there are pickup points for students attending middle schools. He said of the transportation program, "The parents are pleased. It has worked very well for us."
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