Wednesday, January 25, 2012

We met a major construction milestone on November 18, 2011 and celebrated with a steel topping ceremony for the new building at American and Cambria Streets. This ceremony is a tradition of Iron-workers signifying that they have nearly completed erecting the steel superstructure and celebrates that no life was lost during this critical part of construction. An evergreen tree signifying life, the American flag and steel beam signed by a number of our students was raised and placed at the highest point of the structure. It was another exciting moment in Pan American and Congreso history.

All three floors of the building and staircases are completely installed. The waterproof exterior barrier of the building is being installed to enclose the building during the winter months. It will take most of January and early February to complete this stage of work. This will allow the building exterior which includes masonry and metal panels to be installed by mid February. By enclosing the building the workers, equipment and materials will be more protected from the winter weather and allow them to focus on laying our the interior framing and hanging duct-work to support the HVAC system. The Electricians and Technology cabling vendors began their installation in December and will be completed by April.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

I am writing to provide an update on the construction of our new building.  I want to start by thanking you for your patience as the design and funding team have worked to make the promise of a new building a reality. 

I am happy to share that construction began on June 20, 2011. Approximately 80% of the construction contracts have been authorized and the project is moving forward!

Progress to date includes the excavation and removal of excess soil, installation of the storm water management system and partial paving of the playground area. The buildings first floor foundation is being constructed now and will be complete in early October. By mid-October we anticipate that the steel infrastructure of the building will begin. It will take approximately two months for the 2nd and 3rd floors and steel infrastructure to be complete.

The building is expected to be complete by June 20, 2012.  The school will use the summer months to relocate the staff and classrooms and prepare the building to welcome your children to their new home. We have not confirmed how summer school or other summer programs will be coordinated, you will hear more, later this year as we confirm plans.

We look forward to the new building as it will provide space and resources that we believe your children deserve.  The new facility will offer 29 classrooms for K-8 grades along with special classrooms for Science, Art, Technology, ESL, and Special Education and Speech support rooms.  The new facility will also have space for a new School Library, the Nurses Suite /Wellness Center, Music room, teacher’s conference room and other conference rooms.

As we get relocated into the school we will hire a librarian and develop the school library, music program and art program over time. We also anticipate developing a performance area within the cafetorium.

We will continue to provide you with updates on the progress of construction throughout the school year.   Thank you again for the support you provide to your children and to Pan American Academy Charter School.  We believe the new facility will enhance our ability to provide quality educational opportunities to your children and many memorable events for you and your family.

Best regards and well wishes for the 2011-2012 school year!

Sincerely,
Mrs. Wanda Novalés
CEO
 
Congreso building on American Street in the background

Construction foreman reviewing drawings in the field

Installation of building foundation

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