TOWSON, MARYLAND (June 3, 2009) - The 477 students currently enrolled at Southgate Elementary School were afforded the opportunity to participate in the construction of their new school. The idea to get kids involved with a hands on construction activity was a collaborative idea between Gary Murphy, Vice President of Construction Operations for Oak Contracting, and Dr. Jane George, principal of Southgate Elementary School. The students were broken into groups by grade level to make the activity manageable. They were brought to the school's auditorium for a brief interactive presentation about the $15.1 million renovation and addition their school is undergoing over the next two years. Students were asked about construction duration, materials needed for construction, the cost of their new school, and who is involved in the project. This week, the most important people involved were the students.

After the presentation, the kids were led outside to participate in the construction of their new school. Students waited patiently for their turn to spread some mortar and lay a brick on a new wall being constructed on the side of the building. Sean Collins, project superintendent for Karon Masonry, assisted students with the activity.

Oak's Gary Murphy along with Ronnie Brouillard, Oak's onsite project manager, and Eric Green, Oak's superintendent, led a special project for the fifth grade class. With only a few days left at Southgate Elementary before moving onto middle school, each fifth grade class participated in making a concrete stepping stone for the new courtyard. “This allows the departing students something to leave behind that represents their class,” explained Dr. George.

The renovations and additions were designed by GWWO/Architects, Inc. and will be constructed in a phased, occupied setting. The school will undergo a comprehensive renovation including a new classroom wing, redesigned entrance and administrative area, a new gymnasium/cafeteria and kitchen, and an extended care addition.