Open Gates

The Walker Renovation Project

Ron Cino, Head of School

Worcester Academy

Balancing competing concerns . . .

Goal 3 of WA’s Strategic Plan: By 2014, Worcester Academy will assess, support, and sustain its community and educational programs through exemplary institutional systems and practices.

A project of this magnitude presents. . .

OLD buildings need care and up-keep . . .

. . . Like Walker Building . . .

. . . A Complex project. . . .PROJECT PHASES:

Phase One: March 1-May 1, 2013The renovation of the lower level of Kellner and the relocation of Information Services.  Student Life offices and activities will continue uninterrupted on the main floor.

Phase Two: Late May-Late August, 2013Demolition and reconstruction of lower two levels of Walker Hall; installation of exterior ramp for accessibility; installation of elevator that will service both Walker and the Megaron; installation of new HVAC system; installation of new restrooms on each of the top three floors.

[During the 2013-2014 academic year, we will have full use of the top three floors in Walker, but we will have no access to the bottom two floors.  We will use temporary spaces to accommodate the arts classes and other school functions that normally take place on these levels.]

Phase Three: Late May-Late August, 2014Demolition and reconstruction of classroom and office spaces; installation of new windows; installation of building systems.

#1 challenge

Renovating old-buildings brings unanticipated issues . . .

#2 challenge

Anticipating FUTURE needs. . . The future of education.

What can we learn from A project like this?

Balancing and preserving . . .

1. Is the essence of education. . . Progressive, action-oriented

2. Creating a sense of place/community

3. A sense of continuity

4. As President Kennedy said in his inaugural speech more than 50 years ago. . . Passing the torch to a new generation