Tullos was full of excitement, she said, which only grew when she saw crowds of people had showed up to the beam-signing ceremony even earlier than herself. Among them was Jane Ruestmann, a former Argyle ISD teacher of more than 40 years and the school's namesake.
How it happened
Tullos, Ruestmann, community members, board trustees, parents, and students and staff transitioning to the new campus came to show their support and mark a district milestone in an almost 200-person turnout. Attendees signed their names on the historic beams, which will have a future home inside the campus, according to the district.
But the first thing Tullos did was introduce herself to Ruestmann.
“That moment was pretty indescribable,” she said. “I am incredibly honored to open a school that’s namesake is someone that had such a beautiful and positive impact on this district for the majority of its existence.”
“It was kind of a metaphoric way to spend Valentine’s Day because we were all gathered together showing our love and excitement for the new campus,” Tullos said.
As the vice principal of Argyle West, Tullos knew many of the families at the signing, but she also used the opportunity to meet people from Argyle South. She wants to create a dynamic and inclusive environment at the new school where kids are comfortable from day one, she said.
The outlook
And that day is fast approaching as the district heads toward completion of its fourth elementary school, a significant step in fulfilling its 10-year plan. The nearly completed masonry makes a big impact, and from the outside the school appears finished, Tullos said. What once existed in emails, maps and blueprints has come to life.
“I cannot believe the progress construction-wise that has been made on that building,” Tullos said.
Crews have installed nearly all mechanical, electrical and plumbing work, said Jason Davis, senior project manager of Pouge Construction, at a Feb. 20 meeting. They have also completed the roofing and are finishing out the windows and doors. Landscaping is soon to begin, and masons are already pouring sidewalks and building the outdoor basketball court.
“I think the project overall is in really good shape,” he said.
The building’s design is similar to Argyle West and South campuses, which will hopefully offer an “at-home” feel, Tullos said. This can help staff and students hit the ground running by providing a comforting familiarity. This also fits with the culture Tullos said she wants to cultivate at Jane Ruestmann Elementary—one that creates a sense of belonging and celebrates diversity.
“I think the identity of Jane Ruestmann will be characterized by innovation and collaboration, and a commitment to growing all students no matter where they’re at,” she said.
Jane Ruestmann Elementary School is scheduled to open in August and will serve grades prekindergarten through fifth grade. Seeing the community come together and get involved solidified the need to continue to organize similar events before the opening, Tullos said.
The district is following the footsteps left by previously built schools and strives to smooth out the process each time as it braces for future projects. The opening of the new campus will be just the latest chapter in the district’s book of growth, Tullos said.
“It is creating the community and the educational experience that our families expect and that our students deserve,” she said.
