WHS cuts ribbon to open up portion of renovation project

Post date: Jan 24, 2016 4:30:17 PM

On January 14th, Wells High School (WHS) celebrated the completion of Phase 1 of a three-phased renovation project. This 88,000 square foot portion of the locally funded, 26.85 million dollar project approved by Wells and Ogunquit voters in 2013, includes a new entrance to the school, lobby, main office, adjacent offices, classrooms, conference rooms, science and media labs, glassed-in library and common areas for study.

"The ribbon cutting was symbolic of the Wells-Ogunquit community coming together for our children,” commented WOCSD School Committee Chair, Helena Ackerson about the event. “It also showed the dedication and emphasis that this community has on ensuring that our students get the best when it comes to education and facilities. There is still a lot of work ahead, but I'm excited to see what the next phase brings!"

Phase 2 and 3 will include a new cafeteria and kitchen plus a gymnasium complete with running track and a 485-seat auditorium. According to Clerk of the Works, Brad Goodale, the entire 130,000 sq. ft. project is expected to be completed by the end of August 2016. And according to Assistant Principal, Josh Gould, the school will now have the capacity to hold 550 students if needed. The current population of WHS is 439.

“It’s been a very exciting time for us building up to this particular moment where we can cut the ribbon and welcome our staff and our students into this beautiful building that our community has done so much to support,” said WHS Principal Eileen Sheehy. “We look forward to welcoming our community in during our Open House on February 4th and February 9th, 6:30 to 7:30 pm.”

Sheehy added, “…Superintendent Daly has been a huge support and as well as leader in the entire process along with our school committee which has had unwavering support for us as well.”

In the new WHS lobby at a brief ribbon cutting ceremony at WHS (left to right) are Assistant Principal, Josh Gould; Vice Chair of the WOCSD School Committee, Jason Vennard; Chair, Helena Ackerson; WHS Student Council members Anna Furness and Taryn Lambert; Superintendent, Jim Daly and WHS Principal, Eileen Sheehy

A student commons area adjacent to the school’s new library (not in photo). Under the five television monitors is a first floor glassed-in conference room