Helen M. Knight Elementary students returned to school this week with a new leader at the helm and construction crews still working to complete major campus improvements.
Principal Holly Harris, a Moab native and Grand County High School graduate, is bringing two decades of educational experience back to her hometown while navigating the challenges of ongoing construction.
Harris, a mother of three daughters, brings a philosophy centered on the belief that “student success and teacher support are deeply intertwined.”
Major construction projects reshape campus
The school is undergoing comprehensive improvements as part of the HMK Elementary Preschool Alterations & Site Improvements project. The construction represents a significant investment in the school’s long-term infrastructure, with improvements designed to better serve both current elementary students and the integration of preschool programming under one roof.
The district’s ambitious renovation includes upgrades to student drop-off and pickup areas, increased parking capacity, enhanced ADA accessibility, new playground surfaces and equipment, and interior remodeling to accommodate an onsite preschool program.
While substantial completion of essential interior work, playground improvements, and drop-off zones was expected in August, some elements remain unfinished as the school year begins.
Final completion is anticipated in October with the full integration of Grand Preschool facilities.
Back-to-school adjustments
The most visible impact for families is the temporary unavailability of new parking areas, requiring continued use of existing facilities. The main drop-off loop remains fully functional, with all students entering through front doors.
Playground limitations present the biggest challenge for students. The main playground remains closed while new equipment installation and safety preparations continue.
“We have developed a plan to ensure students have engaging options, and we have even invited community partners to provide fun, hands-on activities,” Harris explained, also seeking parent volunteers to help supervise and lead activities during lunch recess.
The annual Back-to-School Night on August 19 will accommodate construction constraints with a modified schedule. Families with surnames beginning A-M will attend from 5:30-6:30 PM, while N-Z families from 6:30-7:30 PM.
“We understand that construction can be inconvenient and appreciate your cooperation while we work to improve our school,” she noted. “Student safety is our top priority.”
New staff additions
Beyond Principal Harris, HMK is welcoming several new educators including first-grade teachers Jenny Spencer and Kaci McKinney, second-grade teacher Jennifer Tyner, third-grade bilingual teacher Maria García, and Special Education teacher Kristy Dunn, who brings international teaching experience from New England and Ireland.
Appreciate the coverage? Help keep local news alive.
Chip in to support the Moab Sun News.
