MANCHESTER: The Manchester School District, in partnership with Consigli Construction, held two topping off ceremonies in December at Hillside and McLaughlin Middle Schools. Members of the Manchester School District, Board of School Committee, Mayor Jay Ruais, students and Consigli Construction were on hand to sign the final steel beams of the renovation projects before they were raised into place. An American flag and a small Christmas tree were attached to the beams, signifying a wish for continued good luck and safety for the future of the projects and for the eventual students who will walk its halls.
"Every signature on these beams tells a story of hope, teamwork, dedication and the shared goal of creating a space where curiosity, creativity and learning can thrive," said Manchester superintendent Dr. Jennifer Chmiel.
The renovation at Hillside will include a 40,230-square-foot, three story addition, blending modern and existing elements of the school. The work will include a unique two-level internal courtyard, a new entrance plaza, play area and outdoor classroom.
The McLaughlin project will add 35,850 square-feet, seamlessly combining the existing school with the new addition. It will create a sheltered and secure internal courtyard, accessible from the new lobby and existing school. Operable doors on the ground floor will fully open the courtyard to the lobby, transforming it into an open-air extension for community events or gatherings.
“These milestones mark more than just the next phase of construction on the new Hillside and McLaughlin Middle Schools – they represent meaningful progress toward an exciting new chapter for the Manchester Public Schools community,” said Vance Freymann, Regional Director – New Hampshire at Consigli Construction Co., Inc. “Consigli is proud to build schools where students can thrive, grow and develop for many years to come, and we are grateful for our partnership with the City of Manchester as we bring its vision for a brighter academic future to life.”
The renovations are part of the ongoing Priority One Projects, the largest school facilities enhancement project in the city’s history. The projects feature significant renovations to the city’s four middle schools and the construction of a brand new elementary school. These improvements aim to reduce class sizes, upgrade infrastructure, and create innovative spaces that support student success.
For more information on Priority One Projects, click here.
Hillside Middle School topping off photos
McLaughlin Middle School topping off photos