Significant progress has been made on the Applewood and Kidder Elementary School expansion projects. These additions represent an investment in the future of our youngest students, and Brunswick City Schools' commitment to providing students with the best possible learning environments.

Following the successful completion of site improvements at both schools in late 2024, we have reached another important milestone. The design development drawings for Applewood and Kidder Elementary Schools have been finalized and submitted to Hammond Construction for cost estimation. This brings us another step closer to breaking ground on these future expansions.

At Applewood Elementary, the addition includes four new classrooms, approximately 825 SF each, a group restroom facility, and an individual staff bathroom on the north end of the building. The new classrooms will largely match the others in the school and be designed to be flexible for various teaching styles and student needs. Each classroom will be equipped with technology, new casework, furniture, and air conditioning, providing students and staff with additional learning space to enhance their school experience. These modern classrooms will foster collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, preparing students for the next step in their education.

Kidder Elementary School will also see a significant enhancement with the addition of two new 1,200 SF Pre-K classrooms and a dedicated art room. These classrooms will each have their own student restrooms and be designed with space for movement activity, along with tables for independent work. The new 1,500 SF art room will be a hub of creativity, where students can explore their artistic talents and express themselves through various mediums. This dedicated space allows for expanded arts programming, enriching the educational experience for all students at Kidder ES.

The benefits of these expansions extend beyond the walls of the new classrooms. By increasing the capacity of these elementary schools, the district can better accommodate the needs of the Brunswick community. The modern environments create a more engaging and stimulating atmosphere, fostering a love of learning. Additionally, the expanded Pre-K space at Kidder Elementary will provide space for that program as it grows, offering opportunities for early childhood education, giving our youngest learners a strong foundation for their educational journey.