Prairie Heights Middle School
By Kacie Evans
Prairie Heights Middle School (PHMS), currently a 5-8 middle
school attendance center, was built in 1986. Formerly know as Alta
Vista Elementary School, it was built on the same site as the old
Alta Vista School.
The exterior is constructed of brick and concrete blocks typical of
mid-1980's design. Campus grounds serve students and community
needs with space large enough for football/track practice, a
baseball diamond, an outdoor basketball court, and playground
equipment.
The interior offers students and teachers spacious classrooms
(more than 700 square feet) each equipped with ceiling fans,
fluorescent lighting, window shades, cork bulletin boards, chalk
boards, and storage closets. Portable students desks and chairs
allow teachers flexible student group arrangement according to
learning needs.
A competition size gymnasium provides space for physical
education, recess, athletic practices, athletic competitions, all
school programs/performances, and a yearly 8th grade graduation
ceremony. Home and visitor locker rooms are available for both male
and female students.
Lunch and breakfast are prepared and served in a cafeteria located at the north end of the building. Office space is available for administrative and support services such as guidance counselor, school nurse, technology, and special education. Other student activity rooms of interest include a library/multi-media room, a vocal music/band room, a technology lab, and a computer lab.
