Stephen Decatur Middle breaks ground for new building addition

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md.- Worcester County and State leaders gathered Wednesday for a groundbreaking ceremony at the Stephen Decatur Middle School.

Leaders celebrated the start of construction on a long-awaited addition to the school. We’re told the school will be replacing their 9 portable classroom trailers with a brand new wing.

They said with enrollment numbers increasing spacing has become a challenge. Safety and weather issues were also concerns for the school, but with this new wing, leaders are hopeful they can make a difference.

“I think it makes them feel validated because I have had parents who have expressed concern over their children having instruction, having a classroom outside and we know that,” Lynne Barton, the Principal of Stephen Decatur Middle School, said.

“Student learning is a priority, and student needs are a priority in Worcester County and this is another example of putting that up front,” Superintendent Lou Taylor, of Worcester County Public Schools, said.

The 25,000 square foot addition will house a new vestibule, 12 classrooms, science labs, and more.

The school district hopes to have the project completed in a year.