Despite many new additions to the campus in Park’s Jr. High’s 50-plus years of being built, a gymnasium has never been added. Students, staff, and the general public use the school’s various facilities every day whether it’s the threatron for events or the track for PE. A gymnasium would be a great addition to these facilities as it would serve multiple purposes from a place for assemblies, indoor sports, and school events. 

First of all, when it rains, each PE class is crowded in a room and has to do worksheets which is very redundant. Not to mention, many students end up confused when trying to find which classroom they are supposed to go to when it rains which causes unnecessary frustration. Of course, the teachers don’t have many options, but having a gym would solve this issue.  If we had a gym, there would be enough space to accommodate us during rainy weather. Similarly, in California, it can get extremely hot, especially during the first and last months of school. When the temperature is above 90, we should have P.E. inside with air conditioning because it would keep all students safe from heat strokes and heat exhaustion while still being able to exercise. 

Another reason why the school deserves a gym is because it would be a great place for school events such as assemblies and ceremonies. A few times a year, assemblies are held in the theatron. These assemblies are typically held in the beginning and end of the school year, and regardless of the sun shade, it still can get extremely hot. This experience is uncomfortable and students tend to start misbehaving while crammed outside. If we had a gym, it would make the assemblies much easier to sit through and would make it easier for the audience to hear and focus on the speakers. Additionally, a gymnasium would allow for a more controlled environment during these events as staff could easily monitor those coming in and out of the building.

Finally, it can also simply be used as another place to hold lunch. The main reason for having two lunches is because of space. However, if there were another location for students to eat, this would eliminate the need for two lunches, making the schedule less complex and reuniting friends. This would also make a rainy-day lunch schedule unnecessary, benefitting the staff and students. It is because of these reasons that an indoor gymnasium should be added to Parks. Jr High in the near future.