Trenton Public Schools joined the New Jersey Schools Development Authority, state and local officials, community partners, students and families on Tuesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new elementary and intermediate school that will serve generations of Trenton students. The district was also grateful for the collaboration and support of the families of Betty V. Coles and Miguel A. Hernandez, whose partnership helped honor the remarkable legacies of their loved ones as these new schools begin their next chapter.
The new school, located behind Grace A. Dunn Middle School represents a significant investment in the future of Trenton's children and the city's neighborhoods. Once completed, the approximately 124,000-square-foot facility will accommodate up to 837 students in kindergarten through sixth grade.
Designed as two schools within one building, the campus will be home to Betty V. Coles Elementary School, serving students in kindergarten through third grade, and Miguel A. Hernandez Intermediate School, serving students in fourth through sixth grades. The facility will feature modern classrooms, collaborative learning spaces, enhanced security and technology-rich learning environments designed to support student achievement and well-being.
"Tuesday's groundbreaking marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Trenton Public Schools," Superintendent James Earle said. "This project reflects our commitment to providing every student with the learning environment they deserve and our belief in the limitless potential of our children. We are grateful for the partnerships that made this investment possible, particularly the neighbors in the area, and Dunn Middle School. We look forward to the day when students walk through these doors ready to learn, grow and thrive."
The project is being managed by the New Jersey Schools Development Authority as part of its ongoing commitment to providing high quality educational facilities for students throughout New Jersey.
District leaders were joined by representatives from the New Jersey Schools Development Authority, elected officials and community stakeholders to commemorate the start of construction. The ceremony celebrated the collaborative effort to create a state-of-the-art learning environment that will benefit Trenton students for decades to come.
Construction is expected to continue over the coming years, with Trenton Public Schools providing updates to families and the community as major milestones are reached.