MES Construction Project

The planned renovations at McAnnulty represent a major investment in the building’s long-term future. It will address critical infrastructure needs, improve the efficiency of building-wide systems and utilities, and upgrade learning environments, including:

• Replacement of underground water, gas, and sanitary lines, along with exterior concrete repairs and site utility upgrades
• Repair of exterior masonry; replacement of original windows, selected exterior doors, and metal panels; roof replacements in areas not previously addressed; and improved exterior lighting for safety and security
• Interior updates such as new classroom and corridor flooring, ceilings, paint, classroom casework, marker and tack boards, and the conversion of the existing library into a modern media center and flexible learning space
• Mechanical, electrical, and technology upgrades, including new heating and ventilation units to improve comfort and indoor air quality, LED lighting throughout the building, upgraded fire alarm and public address systems, enhanced classroom audio and visual systems, and significant improvements to network and communication infrastructure
• Safety and security enhancements, including replacement of classroom and corridor doors with upgraded hardware and wireless locking systems, and installation of a new emergency generator to support critical systems
• Safe removal of asbestos-containing floor materials in compliance with all regulations. Due to the location of these materials, abatement must occur throughout multiple phases of construction and cannot be limited to summer months

The renovation is expected to span approximately 15 months beginning in June 2026 and ending in August 2027.

The project was originally planned to be completed in six construction phases over 15 months. Contractors would have been limited to working in no more than five classrooms at a time, which would have required students and staff to continually and temporarily relocate within the building as work progressed.

The project would have created an environment of considerable noise, disruptions, dust, and smells. In addition, there are asbestos materials within the building that would need to be removed not only during the summer but also during other periods of construction. 

For the 2026-2027 school year, all kindergarten classes will be taught in dedicated first-floor learning spaces at Baldwin High School.

The utilization of space for kindergarten at BHS will include:

• Three direct entrances connect to parking areas for easy arrival and dismissal, with minimal stair use
• Staggered arrival, dismissal, lunch, and recess schedules will avoid overlap with high school transitions
• Restrooms used exclusively by kindergarten students, as well as separate restrooms for staff and for students with additional needs
• Dedicated kindergarten office spaces, including a nurse, principal, secretarial, and social worker area
• Adequate classroom and support spaces for all kindergarten staff
• Exclusive use of auxiliary gym for kindergarten physical education and indoor recess
• Additional outdoor recess areas designated specifically for kindergarten students

While several first-floor spaces at BHS will continue to be used by high school students, all shared areas and transition times will be closely supervised to ensure kindergarten and high school students remain appropriately separate and fully supported on their individual learning journeys, with minimal disruptions or distractions.

However, due to the unique potential learning opportunities that this shared space arrangement provides, the possibility for interested BHS students to serve as mentors or offer classroom help for kindergarteners may be considered on a per-case or per-activity basis, in order to provide meaningful and supportive learning experiences for students of all ages.

Yes, we will offer multiple informational sessions for interested kindergarten parents and guardians to ask questions, see the BHS kindergarten spaces, and provide feedback to ensure that all student needs are taken into account during this temporary relocation.

This page will serve as the home for updates and information about this project as details become available. We’ll continue to share news, timelines, and highlights here as the work moves forward. Be sure to check back often and follow us on social media for the latest updates along the way.