NEW GLARUS — The ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for the new New Glarus Primary School took place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 21. The event marked a significant milestone for the New Glarus School District and the community. The event was attended by elementary students and staff, the school board, administration, parents, and community members.

The ceremony began with School Board President Bill Oemichen raising the national and state flags on the newly installed flagpole. Remarks by Dr. Jennifer Thayer, Superintendent, a representative from Bray Architects, a representative from Kraemer Brothers Construction and Oemichen followed.

Dr. Thayer highlighted the five-year journey that led to the momentous day, beginning with a community survey 2019.  Dr. Thayer expressed gratitude to Bray Architects, Kraemer Brothers Construction, and POB for their outstanding collaboration throughout the design and building process. She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Dr. Laura Eicher, Larry McGowan and district staff, whose countless meetings ensured the design, colors, and features of the new school were thoughtfully planned.

A special thank-you was extended to Lauren Freeman, Village Administrator, and the village utilities staff for their unwavering support and assistance during the planning and building phases. Dr. Thayer also expressed appreciation for Cortney Barry and Annie O’Connor from the Chamber of Commerce for their support and role in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Representatives from Bray Architects and Kraemer Brothers Construction shared their gratitude for being part of such an impactful project. Oemichen closed the remarks by thanking the community for their support of the New Glarus School District, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that made the project possible.

The ceremony concluded with Oemichen cutting the ceremonial ribbon, followed by an open house where attendees toured the new facility. The open house continued until 6 p.m., providing a glimpse of the state-of-the-art classrooms and learning spaces designed for the district’s youngest learners.

The district is thrilled to open this new chapter, Dr. Thayer said. Students in grades 4K-2 are scheduled to move into their new classrooms when school resumes after the holiday break on Jan. 2, 2025. A new drop-off and pick-up plan will also be implemented at that time. Additionally, the remodeling of the old cafeteria into a new library will begin over the Christmas break, with completion anticipated by late March.

For the New Glarus School District, this new Primary School represents a commitment to providing exceptional learning environments for students and underscores the district’s dedication to the community. The district extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality.