By Mason W. Canales
Killeen Daily Herald
COPPERAS COVE — Copperas Cove Independent School District celebrated the opening of its newest elementary school with a pair of ceremonies Tuesday.
At the first ceremony, Col. Patrick Williams, commander of the 89th Military Police Brigade, announced the 178th Military Police Detachment and the 89th Military Police Headquarters and Headquarters Company would make House Creek Elementary its Adopt-A-School Unit.
“I have always had a soft spot for elementary schools,” Williams said addressing the school’s staff in the library. While the 89th already serves Lampasas High School, the Copperas Cove school is closer to home for the soldiers, he said. “We are excited because I think that we can gain and give a lot to the elementary school students.”
Both Capt. John Drew, of the 89th Headquarters, and Capt. Robert Tarr, of the 178th, said the units are looking forward to working with the school and already activities planned, such as helping control traffic on opening day — Monday — and an upcoming a bike rodeo for the students.
For House Creek Principal Larea Gamble, it doesn’t matter if the Fort Hood units hold big or small events, she said. The children will be thrilled to see soldiers reading a book in the library or walking the halls.
“When they see someone in uniform, it will really make their day,” Gamble said.
After the late afternoon ribbon-cutting ceremony, teachers, parents and students were in awe as they toured the new building during meet the teacher night.
“It is beautiful,” said Kellie Bjurman whose 10-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son will be attending the school. “We have watched it be built for a long time now, and it is great to get inside.”
Katie and Karson Bjurman agreed with their mother.
Katie said she liked the size of the library, but two of her favorite features were her third-floor classroom and the ability to walk to school.
“There are a lot of people I know here,” Katie said. “It doesn’t feel new.”