Inside Scoop from Dr. Bacani
PWHS principal reveals information about the end result and the progress of the renovations.
November 2015
Alex Sandberg '17
Some of the most frequent questions pertaining to the renovations at PW are finally being answered. The construction is in full throttle completing the first phase of a predicted three year, seven phase project, set to conclude August 2017.
The school administrators, as Dr. Bacani states, “Have been working collaboratively with the Superintendent, Facilities team and also Project Manager,” to ensure that this will be successful project. The results will include a new, cutting-edge cafeteria combining the two existing cafeterias (east and west).
Due to the fortunate weather, the construction workers have been able to make great progress and are expecting the first phase to be finished ahead of schedule in early March.
With the construction, students have dealt with the resulting effects. Whether it be continual construction noise during the school day or the narrow hallways that are filled to capacity with students commuting between blocks, everyone is aware of the progress being made. However, students so far have been able overcome this adversity with the help of Dr. Bacani and the accommodations made for our staff and students. To many, this nuisance is worth the annoyance, considering the ultimate results of the renovation project. It is very exciting to students that the cafeteria will be implemented with an open courtyard where students will be able to eat lunch outside and socialize and collaborate with peers. There will also be modern furniture and charging stations for students to power their electronic devices.
In addition to the cafeteria, they will also be installing three new classrooms, collaboration areas, and new offices adjacent to the cafeteria with consecutive spaces for a school store and security and Trumark Financial.
I was able to take a sneak peak into the construction to view the progress and it seemed as if phase one was coming along nicely. Cement had been laid down for the cafeteria alongside the open grassland where the courtyard will be located.
Dr. Bacani says that “right now the contractors are advancing with the interior walls as well as installing the steel and the roof of the cafeteria.” In addition, there will be three entrances to the cafeteria: one into the new café area, another directly to the new “scatter-serve” section, and the third being a beautiful glass walkway in the center of the building.
I also asked Dr. Bacani why these renovations are occurring, and he responded, “With the great support from the board of school directors, Superintendent, and greater community, we are able to renovate and upgrade Plymouth Whitemarsh High to match the high quality education and successes our students currently receive.”
This project will change the way Plymouth Whitemarsh High School is seen by people both inside and outside of the district. However, most importantly, it is giving an even greater opportunity for students to thrive socially and academically throughout their learning experience at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School!
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Related Stories:
What is Going on Behind the Walls?
Matt Werther '18 A Glimpse into PW's Future
Brian Paul '18 Gallery: Inside the Renovations
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