Open house set for newly renovated Hutchinson School
Rick Hauger was a sixth-grader at Hutchinson Elementary School in 1965 when the school first opened its doors. More than 40 years later, Hauger is now principal of the recently renovated school. “A lot has changed,” he said. “The community should be proud. I think it’s a great facility that handles the educational needs of our students.”
Community members, including those without children currently enrolled in the school, are invited to attend an open house from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. A rededication ceremony also will be held during that time.
Dr. Ronald Sheba, Laurel Highlands School District superintendent, said he hopes the public will take the opportunity to tour the school.
The renovation project began in the summer of 2005 and was completed in December 2006, Sheba said, noting that the total cost of the entire project, including all fees, was $8.7 million.
Michael Molnar of Michael S. Molnar Associates served as the architect for the project, with K2 Engineering Inc. of Uniontown overseeing construction.
Renovations included overhauling the entire school, adding six classrooms, two conference rooms, an expanded faculty lounge and a workroom. An administrative suite also was added that houses the main office, including Hauger’s office, and a nursing suite. The library also was completely gutted and redone and technology was upgraded throughout the entire building.
Construction, according to Sheba, was done in phases so learning never was disrupted.
Molnar said the elementary school is the best in the area.
“This is the most beautiful school in Western Pennsylvania,” he said.
Large windows allow sunlight in the building, while inspirational phrases like “Read to Learn” are worked into the tile on the walls. All teachers have their own classroom, including music and art teachers.
Most importantly, Sheba said the school is secure, complete with digital video cameras. Anyone who enters the building must go through the main office and visitors are not allowed past the lobby area.
In addition, Hauger’s new office has a view of the entire front of the school so he can monitor everyone coming and going.
“It’s a safe learning atmosphere. I’m very pleased with it,” Sheba said, noting that parents should feel happy and confident about sending their children to such a top-notch school.
In addition to Sheba and Hauger, speakers at the rededication ceremony also will include school board President Cathy Rice and Albert Botti, the first principal of Hutchinson Elementary School.
For more information about the open house and rededication ceremony, call the main office at 724-437-6208.