Rochester to break ground on new elementary school: Here's what to know

ROCHESTER — The groundbreaking for a new elementary school at 753 Salmon Falls Road is scheduled for 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14.

The Rochester School Department announced the event and affirmed the scheduled construction completion date is July 1, 2025. Leaders say it will be the city's largest elementary school .

The 68,000-square-foot facility will have the capacity to serve up to 420 kindergarten through Grade 5 students. The new school will replace two current city elementary schools, the School Street School and the already-closed Nancy Loud School , as well as allow for the removal of five modular classrooms at the Chamberlain and William Allen schools.

When the new school opens, Rochester is scheduled to complete its consolidation to six elementary schools.

“Breaking ground on this project marks a new chapter in our commitment to excellence in education and our dedication to the future of our children," said new Rochester schools Superintendent Annie Azarloza in a prepared statement. "This school will be a cornerstone of learning and growth, fostering an environment where every child can thrive."

The facility’s first floor will include a library, cafeteria, gymnasium, rooms dedicated to music and art, and special education class space. Classrooms will include natural lighting and materials, flexible space, and current technology, according to district leaders. The second floor will house a dozen classrooms and additional special education spaces.

The project is anticipated to cost about $33.6 million. On Oct. 18, 2023, the Rochester City Council approved funding of $15.5 million toward the school. The New Hampshire Department of Education ranked the project at the top of its funding list for the 2024 cycle, providing $15.77 million in support.

Sarah Harrington, Rochester School District board member and chair of the Joint Building Committee, highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the groundbreaking possible. “This project is the result of a true community effort. From the initial planning stages to groundbreaking, we have worked together to create a school that reflects our shared vision for the future," she said in a prepared statement.

Board Chair Shane Downs added, “This school will provide our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and developmentally for decades to come. We’re proud to give the next generation of Rochester students this beautiful facility and look forward to the moments and memories to come here.”

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rochester to break ground on new elementary school: Here's what to know