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Architects report progress but flag schedule risks ahead of John Winthrop Middle School opening
Summary
QA+M architects told the Region 4 security project committee that concrete vestibule slabs and stair work are underway and that framing and sidewalk work will follow, but they flagged delays and an elevator vendor cost request that could affect the Aug. 28 school opening; the principal said families were notified and a security plan was shared with local officials.
QA+M architects Erin Benken and Rusty Malik told the Region 4 John Winthrop Middle School Security Project Building Committee on Aug. 21 that major concrete work for the new vestibules has been completed and that stairs have been formed and are scheduled for pouring this week. Framing of the vestibules is underway, and the contractor plans to remove existing sidewalks and pour new ones in the coming week.
Rusty Malik, the project architect, said the project schedule shows delays that he is tracking closely and that he will work directly with General Contractor Adam Annulli to ensure the contractor meets building-official requirements so the school can open on Aug. 28, 2025. Malik added that it is likely the contractor will perform more general construction activities during September while classes are in session than originally anticipated.
Malik also reported that the elevator vendor Schindler asked the contractor for additional compensation related to tariffs; Malik said he is pushing back on that request and will provide additional information as it becomes available. The committee did not take a formal vote on the elevator issue during the meeting.
John Winthrop Middle School Principal Dr. Carolyn Gbunblee said she has sent welcome letters to families and staff explaining arrival and dismissal changes tied to construction and that she has shared the school security plan with local officials to coordinate a safe opening while work continues on site.
The committee reviewed the posted project schedule and several trade activities that overlap the opening date, including elevator installation, storefront glazing, and interior finish work slated for early September. Architects and staff emphasized the need for careful sequencing and contractor coordination during the first weeks of school; the architects said they will continue to monitor progress and report updates to the committee.
Next steps: the architect will continue direct oversight with the general contractor and provide updates on the elevator vendor’s compensation request and any schedule impacts; the district will proceed with the planned Aug. 28 opening while maintaining a safety plan and adjusted arrival/dismissal procedures.
