Hershey Public Schools proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, unveiling our newly completed Activity Center and school renovations. The project, years in the making, focused on doubling classroom space, updating key instructional areas, and improving safety measures for students and staff. The 1959 building was transformed to include modern, flexible learning spaces for grades K-12, as well as new dedicated rooms for Title I, Speech, and Special Education programs. The renovation also revamped several high school classrooms and converted the old gymnasium into a PreK-12 Media Center and Collaboration Space.
Additionally, the project introduced new construction, featuring a cafeteria and kitchen, instructional space for Health Science, a multi-purpose room for physical education and fine arts, and new locker rooms. Safety upgrades included a secure entrance, updated fire alarm and suppression systems, and new classroom intercoms. Overall, the construction impacted 55,000 square feet of renovations and added 30,000 square feet of new space.
Superintendent Jane Davis thanked the community and stakeholders for their support throughout the planning and construction process. "This achievement was made possible through the dedication of our community, students, and staff. This project directly supports our instructional needs, enhances safety, and provides modern, flexible spaces for our students to learn and grow." Davis said. “She also thanked the Community Committee members who whose hard work and dedication helped to make this project possible”
School Board President, Steve Koch addressed the students and community members and said, “On behalf of the board, I want to express how proud we are of the hard work, collaboration, and dedication that went into making this vision a reality. This project was about creating spaces where our students can thrive—spaces that will help them learn, grow, and prepare for whatever their future holds.”
Special recognition was given to Vern and Kelly Ehlers and their family for sponsoring the Ehlers Family Fitness Center, which will serve student-athletes for years to come. Hershey State Bank was also thanked for sponsoring the ScoreVision boards in both the gym and Activity Center.
The district expressed deep appreciation to Wilkins ADP’s architectural team for their vision in designing collaborative, student-centered and flexible learning spaces, and to BD Construction, who worked as the General Contractor, for their exceptional work in bringing the project to life.
Board of Education Members and students both cut ribbons to celebrate this event!