It was a time for celebration at the ribbon-cutting for the new Thomas Holme Elementary School in Northeast Philadelphia. PZS worked alongside BHA as Associate Architects on this project and the results are extraordinary. The enthusiasm and energy in the new gymnatorium, where the Grand Opening event was held, was sustained throughout the ceremony. Philadelphia dignitaries and School District officials emphasized the abundance of natural light, beautiful, flexible learning spaces, a commitment to modernization, and the promise this new school brings to the 1,200 students that will attend it next year and for many years in the future.
Designed to address overcrowding in the Northeast, the new $88 million, state-of-the-art 141,000 square foot school features modern learning spaces; including a dance studio, music rooms, and interactive media centers. A unique aspect of the project was the direct involvement of students, who helped design features like the building’s facade, playground, and outdoor classrooms.
In his inspiring speech, Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. emphasized the School District’s goal of becoming the fastest-improving school district in the country, ensuring Philadelphia’s children have access to inspiring, 21st-century environments. “This building represents our commitment to delivering the learning environments our students deserve: safe, modern, healthy, and inspiring,” said Board of Education President Reginald Streater at the Tuesday ribbon-cutting ceremony. Holme Principal Micah Winterstein added- “The space they walk into will say how much we value them. I think every kid deserves a space like this, but I’m so excited for our kids to walk in and know that this is theirs.”
