It was a morning defined by blue skies and big smiles as the Oakwood community gathered to break ground on the new Oakwood Academy K-8 School. This momentous event officially launched the $50 million bond construction project, a vision that is now moving from blueprint to reality.

The site, recently busy with earthmoving equipment preparing the foundation, paused for the ceremony, providing a perfect backdrop for the main event. Superintendent Margaret Cunningham led the proceedings, flanked by the five members of the School Board whose dedicated advocacy helped bring this project to fruition.

Joining the Superintendent in turning the first ceremonial spades of soil were:

• Sarah Jenkins, Board Chair: A longtime community education advocate.
• Robert Thompson: Bringing years of facilities and planning expertise to the board.
• Dr. Eleanor Vance: A career educator focused on student-centered design.
• Mr. Javier Rodríguez: A parent representative and local small business owner.
• Mrs. Fatima Khan: Dedicated to ensuring equitable resource allocation.

The energy was palpable as students, parents, and neighbors watched the leadership team mark the official start of a project that will define the community’s commitment to education for decades to come.

Superintendent Cunningham articulated the significance of the day and thanked the people who made it possible:

"Today is about more than just a new building; it’s about a promise kept to our children and our future. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire community. By voting to approve these bond funds, you chose to invest in Oakwood Academy. Because of your trust and foresight, our children will soon learn in a facility that is safe, sustainable, and specifically designed for 21st-century education. This is your school, built by your vote, and we cannot wait to see it full of students."

We are pleased to report that major construction is immediately beginning, and the project remains firmly on schedule and on budget for an opening in time for the 2026-27 school year. We look forward to sharing regular updates as we watch this structure rise!