"There will be some aesthetic differences. The schools need their own identity," said James Branson, assistant to the superintendent.

One key similarity concerns security. Visitors will have go through the reception area before entering the schools, which are set to open for the 2003-04 school year.

"We've seen this at some of the newer schools. It's an added security precaution and one we wanted to implement considering today's climate."

The schools' hallways and some classes will contain skylights. The media center will be located off the main hallway at the entrance to give the schools an instant academic feel.

"We used a lot of parents and teachers ... in telling us what they wanted in the building," Branson said.

Both schools have "oversized" cafeterias and land available for eight-classroom additions to accommodate growth. Plus, the cafeterias can expand into two adjacent classrooms, if needed.

Busy thoroughfares will sit in front of both schools.

The main entrance to New Holland Elementary will be on Barn Street, off Jesse Jewell Parkway, and the driveway is expected to be long enough to handle cars waiting for student drop-offs and pickups.

Westside will sit off McEver Extension, which is set for widening to four lanes from two by the Georgia Department of Transportation.

The school system is planning a driveway to connect McEver and Spring Road, with the main entrance to the school to jut off the new drive.

"The more access points you have, the less congestion you have," Branson said.

Also, to help with traffic, areas where parents drop off and pick up students and where buses load and unload students will be in separate areas at the schools.

The new schools already are generating excitement.

"The wheels are running now on how we can be helpful," said Mike Taylor, pastor of New Holland Baptist Church. "... There might be a way for us to help with after-school care and tutoring."