Oxford School District board members, Bramlett Elementary officials and other community leaders gathered at Bramlett Elementary School Monday afternoon to cut the ribbon on the school’s newest addition.

The 10,259-square-foot building, built behind the main school, adds seven new classrooms to accommodate the school’s growing population of students in kindergarten and first grade.

However, the new building will not only serve as a place for learning but also to keep teachers, staff and students safe during tornadoes and other emergencies.

Three of the new classrooms were built to double as storm shelters.

“We dreamed of a place where we could use our classroom spaces as a tornado safe space, and we are thrilled to announce that this new facility will be a safe space for all students and staff at Bramlett if the time arises,” said Dr. Steve Hurdle, OSD Chief of Operations.

The building was designed by Eley Guild Hardy Architects and the project was managed by ICM Construction.