DURHAM – Superintendent James Morse and the Oyster River Cooperative School District are pleased to announce that the new Oyster River Middle School will open for students on Monday, Feb. 28.
The building replaces the current Middle School, which was built in 1935 and has outlived its ability to meet the needs of a 21st century education. New construction was supported by sending communities through approval of two bond issues.
The building was designed to meet the criteria of academic mission, energy sustainability, and wellness and safety.
Learning spaces are designed to be flexible, and allow students to work in both small and large groups. Students will be assigned their main academic subjects in four-classroom clusters, each of which includes a large common meeting space. Hallways have been minimized. Some art classrooms will have access to outdoor classroom spaces, which will include a “living roof” with vegetation.
Oyster River will be the largest energy self-sustaining building in the state. Solar arrays, low-energy LED lights, natural light, and state-of-the-art climate systems will lead to an estimated $2 million in energy savings across 20 years.
The new school also includes the latest security technology. The front entrance is set back from the road, increasing pedestrian safety across the campus.
The building façade includes words used in indigenous culture, while icons reflect both the region’s ship-building history and the contributions its Indigenous Peoples. Flooring in the cafeteria/common area includes a representation of the Oyster River, which unites the sending communities of Durham, Lee, and Madbury.
Team areas and stairwells are painted to reflect the State of New Hampshire’s rivers (light blue), mountains (purple), oceans (dark blue), and forests (green).
The centerpiece of the school is a 901-seat concert hall, reflecting the District’s strong commitment to the performing arts. The hall also will be available for use by community organizations. Music classrooms and practice spaces were designed with input from an acoustic engineer.
“This is, arguably, the finest concert hall in the state,” Superintendent Morse said.
The architectural firm Lavallee Brensinger of Manchester designed the school. Bauen Corporation of Meredith is serving as general contractor. Bauen Corporation purchased materials early in anticipation of rising costs, thus shielding district taxpayers from unexpected price increases.
“Our construction partners took this project on as a personal mission, and have delivered. For $50 million, you couldn’t build this building today,” Superintendent Morse said. “Our taxpayers are getting an incredible building for a reasonable cost.
“It’s amazing what you can do with the support of the community,” Superintendent Morse said.
Students have begun orientation. On a recent Tuesday, students touring the building were impressed by the layout, natural light, and common areas.
“I need someone to pinch me,” one student said. “I can’t believe this is my school.”
Parents and guardians may tour the school with their student in early March, with times assigned by homeroom teacher or program.