A Celebration of Vision, Community & Heart
By Susan Slater
The ribbon cutting Ceremony for the new West Elementary School was far more than the unveiling of a beautiful new building.
It was a celebration of vision, perseverance, community collaboration, and a shared commitment to the future of local children. Families, students, educators, community leaders, and supporters gathered to commemorate a project that has transformed a dream into reality.
Throughout the ceremony, recognition was given to the many individuals and organizations that helped bring the new school to life. Among those thanked were John Legg, Al Hernandez, Seth Weightman, Chief Brewer, Billy Poe, local businesses, school administrators, and countless community members whose support and dedication carried the project from concept to completion.
Principal Christina Twardosz opened the event with heartfelt remarks, reflecting on the remarkable journey that led to the creation of the new campus. When she first returned to West Elementary, she believed the school was getting a new cafeteria. Instead, that modest hope evolved into something much greater: an entirely new school designed with students’ needs at its heart. During the planning and design process, Twardosz was asked what she hoped West Elementary would represent. Her answer was simple but meaningful:
history, nature, and tradition. Those themes can be found throughout the building. Kindergarten classrooms feature a calming garden-green color palette, while the media center is painted a soothing ocean blue. Curved walls create a welcoming flow throughout the school, and a dedicated sensory room offers students a peaceful place to regroup when needed.
Twardosz also proudly shared one of her favorite features: bathrooms in every classroom, adding convenience and comfort for students and staff alike. The construction of the new school was made possible through the dedication of The Williams Company, which spent two years working alongside the school community.
Their commitment extended far beyond construction. Despite challenges, including torrential rains, they remained focused on ensuring students’ well-being. At one point, when children faced crossing muddy grounds and risking their only pair of shoes, members of the construction team built a makeshift bridge. It was a small gesture that symbolized the heart behind the entire project.
John Legg spoke passionately about the connection between the past, present, and future represented within the walls of West Elementary. He reflected on generations of students who had passed through the school, the children learning there today, and the future students who will one day grow into leaders and innovators.
School Board Chairwoman Colleen Beaudoin praised families for investing in their community and choosing
Neighborhood schools. John Barber of Williams Construction recognized his six-member team, describing how warmly they were welcomed throughout the project.
Invited to school luncheons and career days, they became part of the West Elementary family. He described the project as being built with “blood, sweat, and tears”—though, he joked, there was no bloodshed, only plenty of sweat and tears of joy.
The ceremony concluded with a moving performance of "Seasons of Love" by the West Elementary Choir, led by Music Director Roy Mitchell.
Principal Twardosz then encouraged students to stand tall, smile proudly, and embrace their new home.
With oversized scissors in hand and excitement filling the air, community leaders cut the ribbon, officially opening the doors to a bright new era for West Elementary. ♥
