Parkside Elementary School

Can you hear the laughter? It echoes from Parkside Elementary School, a place where, since 1967, young minds have been nurtured and imaginations have taken flight. Parkside Elementary School stands as a testament to Murray’s commitment to education. The school, located at 5175 S. Parkside Dr., has been a cornerstone of the community for generations. Originally built with an “open classroom” design, Parkside Elementary School embraced the innovative educational trends of the late 1960s. Imagine large, open pods for each grade, separated by accordion-fold partitions instead of walls. This design was meant to encourage team-teaching and a free flow of learning. However, by the mid-1970s, these wall-less classrooms were deemed too noisy and a fire hazard. The partitions came down, but the spirit of innovation remained. Parkside Elementary School also experimented with split-grade classrooms in the upper grades around this time. Today, Parkside Elementary School continues to evolve. It fosters a vibrant learning environment for approximately 625 students from kindergarten through sixth grade. The school day runs from 8:40 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Wednesdays are a bit shorter, ending at 1:15 p.m. Kindergarteners have their own schedules, with all-day kindergarten following the regular schedule and morning kindergarten wrapping up earlier. Parkside Elementary School prides itself on its commitment to every student’s success. The school offers a free breakfast program to all students and runs a “Principal Pantry” on Thursdays and Fridays to provide additional support for families. Beyond academics, Parkside Elementary School is a hub of extracurricular activities. From choir and chess club to origami and Mad Science, there’s something for everyone. The annual Author’s Fair is a highlight, where each student writes and publishes their own book. Parkside Elementary School is deeply connected to the community. The school partners with the Salt Lake Valley Health Department to cultivate a community garden, teaching students about healthy eating and environmental stewardship. It was also the first school in Utah to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay Recess Program, raising over $3,000 annually. As you stand before Parkside Elementary School, you’re not just looking at a building. You’re witnessing a legacy of learning, community, and growth. It’s a place where Panthers, the school’s mascot, learn, play, and prepare to pounce on their futures.