Construction Moving Along at Classical
Although Classical High School is going through some major renovations on the first floor, students and teachers have hardly noticed the work. That is mostly because the work doesn't start until after the school day ends. But in the last few days we have seen some more observable changes taking place.
First, tons of gravel stone have been dropped around the outside of the building. The gravel has been spread and is now a road for large dumpsters and trucks. The back parking lot has been closed off and trailers are being filled with items removed for storage. We've also seen changes inside. The A, B, and C Wings on the first floor have been completed walled off from the rest of the school. That is good, because there was concern about dust in the air in the next phase of construction. There are also three Air Quality Assurance machines set up in different areas of the school, monitoring 24 hours a day.
We all look forward to the day when the work will be completed. Meanwhile, the Freshman Academy at the original Classical High School is working out well. Both teachers and students are enjoying it much more than they originally thought. They feel it is a nice transition year from middle school. After-school bus service is provided so the Freshmen can be involved in all Classical Organizations, Clubs, and Sports Teams. This coming fall, these students will move over to the new Classical while the next Freshmen class will go to the Academy School.
At the O'Callaghan Way location, we have gotten used to using just the top two floors, although the first floor Gymnasium, Cafeteria, Auditorium, Main Office, and D Wing are still in daily use. We do appreciate the commitment of the City, Superintendent, and School Committee in helping keep Classical a great place for learning.
All non-supporting walls and floors will be replaced on the first level.
The Classical Library shown in deconstruction phase yesterday.
The first floor B Wing classroom area.
This photo epitomizes the problem - floating cement floors sinking inside the building's structural exterior frame, which is fully supported. Steel beam supports will hold up the new cement floors when they are repoured.