It was an exciting start of the school year for the students and teachers of Lyseth Elementary School – construction was finally complete and they had a beautifully updated school! “When we did the initial groundbreaking, kindergarteners helped dig in the dirt. Those kids are now in 3rd grade,” remarked Hardypond President, Deirdre Wadsworth. “Half of their elementary school career has been this project and they’ve been able to see the whole process from start to finish.”
To mark the occasion, Lyseth held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony where students, teachers, administrators, and community members spoke. The community support and excitement for the new building was palpable and it was particularly poignant to hear kids speak about all the changes they’d seen throughout the project. “It was amazing to watch 5th graders get up and speak with poise in front of 100 people,” shares Wadsworth. One student commented on how much they loved the new, separate gym and theater space that Hardypond had added, but it wasn’t just because it was a fun space to play basketball. The student realized how hard it had been for their custodial staff to constantly break down and set up tables back when the gym and cafeteria were in a shared space. Another student commented on how they’ve noticed that their teachers and administrators are happier in the updated building.
The new learning environment is certainly a bright, cheerful space that is filled with light. From the new library to the new music and art room to the new gym complete with a stage, Hardypond helped create a place where kids can be inspired to learn and grow. And that is something to cheer for – hip-hip-hooray!
You can read about the entire project here: