Leeds considering new elementary school

School officials in Leeds have a problem. They have plenty of students ready to learn, but not enough space to teach them in.

They are now looking at possibly building a new elementary school to accommodate the growing student population. In the past two years, the system as a whole has grown by approximately 13 percent. The elementary school has seen the largest individual growth, a 1 percent jump.

"We do anticipate portable classrooms for the next school year, particularly at the elementary school and possibly at the middle school," Leeds Superintendent John Moore said.

Officials have already tried different arrangements, like moving fifth graders to the middle school.

"It was a band-aid and now it's time for the band-aid to come off. We simply don't have any more classroom space in our elementary school," said Moore.

Parents have also noticed the need for the new school.

"I think it would help out a lot around here. The school is overcrowded as it is," said Robbie Smith, the parent of a child attending the school.

If built, the new facility would likely house kindergarten through second grade students. Third through fifth graders would likely remain in the current facility.

Moore says the biggest obstacle now is to secure funding. He's already discussed plans with new Leeds Mayor David Miller, who is currently looking for a funding source.

"And we're going to meet again in the near future to look at the those possibilities," said Moore.

Copyright 2012 WBRC. All rights reserved.