Brunswick City Schools breaks ground on new high school

BRUNSWICK — The Brunswick community gathered together as Brunswick Schools students and administration ceremonially broke ground on the new high school on Saturday. The ceremony took place two years and one day after voters passed the bond issue to finish the district's facilities master plan. Building a new high school is the main aspect of the $102 million project, which is partially funded by $42.6 million from the state. "This project is quite literally a concrete example of the value that our Brunswick community places in education," Board of Education president Mary Weinhauer said. "Our students and staff will walk the halls of this new high school soon. I hope it's obvious to them that Brunswick values their health, their happiness and their success." Derrick Semilia from Hammond Construction said work on the site began around 15 months ago with the demolition of Towslee Elementary School. Construction on the school's foundation will begin this week, depending on the weather, and the building is anticipated to be finished 25 months from now. "As we turn these shovels in a few moments, we're not just moving dirt," Superintendent Jason Niedermeyer said. "We're moving forward together. We're building today while inspiring all our tomorrows." Brunswick High School student Emily Woolard was one speaker during Saturday's ceremony. She said the new high school will be an environment where students can thrive and turn into the next generation of leaders. "This school stands as a testament to your belief in the power of education and the promise of every Blue Devil who walks through these doors," she said. "We're not just building a school. We're building a legacy, and today we take that first step together." Brunswick Middle School student Vishruth Vikram said he is excited for the new school, because it will support students' academic goals and passions while being a launchpad for their future careers. "The physical building is just the beginning," he said. "What matters most is what we do inside of it." Brunswick High School principal Keith Merrill said as an alumnus, he sees Brunswick High School as a family and a legacy with a bright future rather than just a name or a mascot. "The foundation we build today rests not just on concrete and steel, but on the rich history, the deep connections and the proud spirit that defines our schools," he said. "Our community runs deep with pride, tradition and loyalty. These ties have always been the heart of who we are, and they will continue to be the heartbeat of our future." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.