School News

Last Updated on Monday, 30 December 2024 01:17

The Space Will Also be Used For District-Wide Events, Fulfilling a Need Since EFHS Fire In 2023

Audiences filled the new middle school auditorium for the holiday concerts

The EFMS 7th-grade Chorus performs

The EFMS Orchestra performs

When music students at Elizabeth Forward Middle School took to the stage recently for their annual Holiday Concerts, the auditorium where they sang, and played their instruments felt like a brand-new home.

In early December, work was completed on a 750-seat auditorium renovation project that started in July. The facility was packed for three straight days with band and choir concerts for students in grades 6-8.

Dr. Trisha Martell, EFMS principal is thrilled with the finished product saying the space will “undoubtedly inspire creativity, foster community, and provide countless opportunities for our students and staff.”

Dr. Martell credited Mr. Zak DiGorio, EFSD manager of buildings and grounds for his dedication and hard work in planning and preparing our new auditorium. “His attention to detail and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed,” Dr. Martell said. “Whether it was handling the finer aspects of the project or managing the unexpected challenges that arose, he has been an integral part of making this vision a reality.

“Our new auditorium stands as a testament to everyone’s skill and teamwork, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together. Thank you for going above and beyond for our students, staff, and community.”

While the new auditorium was the site for middle school holiday concerts, there are several more events already planned, including this spring’s high school musical, Hadestown: Teen Edition, April 3-6, 2025. That will be a significant performance because it is the first time that the musical will be held on campus since 2002.

A fire broke out at the high school on Feb. 12, 2023, roughly a month before that spring’s performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The show went on at Thomas Jefferson High School, as did Big Fish this past spring. But the renovations will allow the district to hold its musical and theatre events in the new space.

Next up in the auditorium will be the middle school talent show on Jan. 25, 2025. Additionally, the Middle School Musical will take place on Feb. 7-8, 2025. The Elementary Rotary Spelling Bee is slated for April 8, 2025, and the elementary music concert on April 10, 2025