A groundbreaking for a new middle school in Windham took place Sept. 21. Contributed / RSU 14

A vibrant crowd gathered on Sept. 21 to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new middle school in Windham, an event steeped in community spirit and anticipation, according to the town newsletter.

Windham is part of RSU 14, which also includes the town of Raymond.

“It’s reminiscent of the 2001 groundbreaking ceremony for the high school,” recalled school Superintendent Chris Howell, noting the challenges faced during past projects. “We’re excited that we’ve actually reached this spot after seven years of planning.”

This ambitious project aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in Windham and Raymond, with the building expected to open in three years, according to the newsletter. The groundwork, already begun, symbolizes years of collaboration and commitment from local leaders from both towns.

Mark Morrison, chair of the Windham Town Council, emphasized the community’s investment in its future. “This middle school represents the town’s commitment to our children as well as to our future,” he said. He thanked various stakeholders, including school board members and local residents, for their dedication.

Deputy Commissioner of Education Dan Chuhta discussed the school’s potential to foster learning. “This building will not just be bricks and mortar; it will be a place where students thrive,” he said. With community support and significant funding from the state of Maine, this project marks “a transformative step forward,” Chuhta added.

“Learning should be energizing, fun, and not a chore,” Morrison said. The new middle school aims to provide just that, he added, promising to inspire students for years to come.

At last year’s November election, voters in both Windham and Raymond approved a bond authorized to be used for the new school. A large chunk of the estimated $171.5 million price tag for the school is being paid for by the state, $131.7 million. The local share is $39.8 million.

According to information provided by the school department prior to last year’ vote, the benefits of a new middle school include:

• Brings Raymond and Windham students together from fifth grade to eighth grade;

• Creates increased hands-on learning spaces;

• Provides new, innovative education space throughout that is learner-centered;

• Allows for universal pre-K, by freeing up space at other schools;

• Provides performing arts opportunities with an auditorium, supporting performance areas, music areas and presentation spaces;

• Utilizes the site to enable outdoor learning, leveraging the environment as a learning tool;

• Provides flexibility for future growth.

The school will be sustainably built and include greater security measures. It will include two community centers (former middle schools); a 600-seat auditorium; multiple meeting and presentation areas; two gymnasiums; an indoor elevated track; and fields, trails and other outdoor assets.