East Panhandle Times

Tomahawk Intermediate School has opened a new wing for its fourth-grade students, adding five classrooms to accommodate the growing student population. The expansion, funded by a 2022 bond, began in July 2024. The second phase of the project, which will include an additional five classrooms, is expected to open soon.

Paul Tyson, director of facilities and maintenance with Berkeley County Schools, led the project. He highlighted energy-saving features like dimming lights that adjust based on external light conditions. Tyson praised the architects for their work in seamlessly integrating the new wing with the existing structure. "The architects did a great job making sure it matches bricks, and the roofing matches the rest of the school," he said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the opening of the new wing. Principal Krista Ematrudo expressed her enthusiasm about welcoming students into this updated facility. "We are excited for students to experience this updated facility," she stated. She thanked the community for supporting the bond that made this expansion possible.

Students had previously seen their new classrooms and were eager to move in officially. Ematrudo shared how students participated in creating a balloon arch for the event. "Their faces said it all," she noted.

Superintendent Ryan Saxe also acknowledged community support and emphasized that these state-of-the-art classrooms would help address overcrowding issues as Berkeley County continues to grow. "Adding these new classrooms will help alleviate the pressure here at Tomahawk," Saxe commented.