Elementary school named for businessman, author

When Springfield's newest elementary school opens for classes this fall, it will bear the name of a well-known area business owner and children's author.

The Springfield Public Schools Board of Education voted Tuesday night to name the school David Harrison Elementary School. The name was one of 40 suggestions from students and families in the attendance area for the school, which will be located at Weaver Road and Golden Avenue in southwest Springfield.

Harrison has written more than 70 children's books and organized several district programs, including the Sky High for Reading campaign and the Reading Roundup fundraising campaign. He also is a former school board member, having served 1982-88.

Harrison also is known in the business community; he was owner of Glenstone Block Co. until selling the company to Jefferson City-based Midwest Products Group in 2008.

The 58,980-square-foot school on 72 acres carries a $10 million price tag, funded by the district's 2006 bond initiative. DeWitt & Associates Inc. is the general contractor, and the project architect is Nebraska-based Beringer, Ciaccio, Dennell, Mabrey.

Future updates about the school will be available at the Web site below.Read SBJ's March 23 issue for more education news.