As students and staff prepare to return for the new school year, Armstrong Middle School is welcoming them back to a significantly upgraded learning environment following the successful completion of an extensive summer renovation project.
The work represented Phase 1 of a multi-year revitalization plan for Armstrong, and was focused on ensuring a healthy and comfortable learning environment for staff and students by completely overhauling the school’s HVAC system, and then completing targeted classroom improvements.
Preparation for the project began in March when district maintenance staff completed demolition work during the night shift while students remained in session. Working after school hours, crews demolished 31 classrooms and four corridors, allowing construction to begin immediately after the school year ended and keeping the project on track to meet its August completion deadline.
The renovation transformed both the building's infrastructure and learning spaces. More than 100 cubic yards of debris were removed as crews replaced seven aging air-handling units with new, energy-efficient systems, installed four rooftop HVAC units to serve the gymnasium, cafeteria, auditorium, library, and K-wing, and connected the entire system to a computerized building automation system. The project also included the installation of more than 1,000 feet of chilled- and hot-water piping, over 2,000 feet of insulated supply ductwork, and a new cooling tower with a concrete structural foundation.
In addition to the mechanical upgrades, 35 classrooms received new flooring, ceilings, lighting, and fresh paint, creating bright, modern learning environments for students. The building also received a new backup generator, upgraded PECO electrical service, new high-voltage switchgear, and 15 new electrical distribution panels to support the expanded HVAC system. Additionally, 596 energy-efficient LED light fixtures were installed throughout the building, qualifying the district for PECO "Ways to Save" rebates.
"The amount of planning and coordination required to complete a project of this size in a single summer was tremendous," said Operations Manager Michael Cox. "Our goal was to provide students and staff with a more comfortable, efficient, and reliable building while ensuring everything was ready before the first day of school. I'm incredibly proud of the teamwork that made that possible."
Cox also recognized the many individuals who contributed to the project's success.
"From our district maintenance and custodial staff to the contractors and project partners, everyone remained focused on meeting our deadline without compromising quality," Cox said. "Completing the work ahead of schedule and on budget is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of every person involved."
The district's custodial staff played a vital role throughout the project, keeping the building clean during construction and then thoroughly washing and waxing the entire facility to ensure students and staff return to a welcoming, polished environment.
With final inspections completed well in advance of the start of school, Armstrong Middle School is ready to welcome students into a safer, more efficient, and modernized facility that will support teaching and learning for years to come!