Although the new middle school hasn’t yet opened its doors, class was in session for 12 Dean students when they toured the construction site on Tuesday, guided by HPS Director of Maintenance Sean Sheedy.
During the tour, students enrolled in Dean’s carpentry and electrical programs learned how different groups and teams work together on a construction project. Together with Dean staff, they reviewed the roles and responsibilities of the owner, general contractor, specialized contractors, and clients. Local leaders explained how public construction projects are funded, with State Representative Pat Duffy highlighting the roles of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) and Holyoke’s city council in spearheading the middle school construction project.
Students and guests were then led across the site, seeing the first-floor foundation as it received final touches before the steel beams arrived a few days later. With the arrival of the steel, the structure of the building will take shape quickly, with a topping off ceremony planned for the coming weeks (see accompanying story). The new middle school is expected to open its doors in late fall or early winter 2025.
Also joining the tour was Superintendent—and HHS Dean graduate—Anthony Soto, Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, City Councilor Juan C. Anderson-Burgos, as well as representatives from North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (NASRCC) Local #336, Anser Advisory, and Fontaine Brothers.
Fontaine Bros. is the general contractor for the new middle school building. Mount Vernon Group Architects is the design firm, and Anser Advisory is serving as the Owner’s Project Manager.
The event was illuminating for the students, many of whom are sophomores just beginning their hands-on career-technical education. In addition to seeing the current phase of construction and electrical work, students learned from trade experts about the many career opportunities in construction.
Mr. Sheedy spoke to students about his own career path as a Dean carpentry graduate. After becoming a carpenter, Mr. Sheedy worked his way up, becoming a company owner and then a staff member at HPS before eventually landing in his current position as director of maintenance. He emphasized just how important hands-on work was to his career, and for the city of Holyoke.
“You can do it,” said Mr. Sheedy of growing a career in the trades. “You guys are the future. Remember that.”