Description
[page 3]
[corresponds to unlabeled page 3 of Conger School Dedication Program]
THE JAMES A. CONGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The idea of giving a name to what had long been known as "East" School had its
origin among the people of the school community. The process by which the change of
names came about was long, as is always the case where democratic action prevails.
But out of the total process came the voice and the will of the people. And it was
quite natural for the people to want their school named for the principal who had
served them so long and so well, who was loved by so many, and whose loss is still
deeply felt. The late James A. Conger, better known as "Jim," would have wanted
no better monument to his name than this fine modern educational plant, proudly
serving the children and youth of a grateful community.
THE CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM
Construction of the new addition to Conger Elementary School began on April
20, 1955, and the building was first used for school purposes on March 5, 1956. It is
of masonry, reinforced conccrete, and structural steel construction, the exterior being
bricks of red Delaware clay.
The addition contains four classrooms, modern toilet facilities, kitchen, chair
storage room, and an enlargement to the gymnasium auditorium. All ceilings in the
new construction are finished in eggshell tone accoustical plaster; floors throughout
are of asbestos tile in harmonious colors which give an overall effect of pleasantness
and relaxation. Classroom lighting is accomplished by two 28-foot banks of fluores-
cent fixtures, and a special light-diffusing glass in the upper sash of the windows.
Woodwork is natural-finished birch; chalkboards are green clearsite composition and
tackboards are green cork composition.
Each classroom is equipped with a sink and drinking fountain, as well as metal
lockers for pupil coat storage. Heating is by pressurized hot water, fired by automatic
gas burner, and classroom heating units are the Nesbitt book-shelf type for greater
utility and space economy.
The original building was completely redecorated and remodeled, and the original
furniture has been almost completely replaced with modern movable furniture in blond
finish. The installation of a centralized time-control system; an electrically operated
fire alarm system; a public address system equipped with inter-com, AM-FM radio,
and phonograph; and a 9-foot cyclone-type fence around the play areas, add further
to the convenience, safety, and efficiency of the entire school plant.
Cost of the project has been established at $90,000 for construction; $60,000 for
remodeling; and $15,000 for furnishing.
THE GLEE CLUB
Beginning in 1952 the school has had a glee club, made up largely of fifth and
sixth grade pupils. During the 1954-55 school year, when space for rehearsals during
school time was completely lacking, and again during the 1955-56 school year until
completion of the building program, it was necessary to abandon the glee club as a part
of the regular curriculum. It was re-activated in March, 1956, and has nearly 40
members from the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades, all admitted to membership as a result of
try-outs. The addition to our school program is made possible by the splendid co-
operation of teachers, pupils, and parents with the director, Miss Mack.
