News

On Tuesday, the City of Norwich marked a major milestone in its $385 million school construction program with a groundbreaking ceremony at John B. Stanton Elementary School — the first of six schools to undergo transformative construction.

Hosted in the school auditorium, the event brought together members of the CSG team, local and state representatives, DRA Architects, and Downes Construction. Principal Carolina Mendez-Korczynski welcomed guests, with 5th graders leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Superintendent Susan Lessard, once the school’s principal for seven years, praised “Team Norwich” and highlighted the contributions of CSG’s Mike Faenza, who has led efforts to incorporate staff feedback and make the new space feel like home.

The program, originally conceived in 2016, has achieved up to 80% reimbursement for its first four schools — a testament to years of advocacy and collaboration, noted Building Committee Chair Mark Bettencourt.

Mayor Peter Nystrom acknowledged the crucial role of Norwich taxpayers, calling the program “something much greater than bricks and mortar.”

State Senator Cathy Osten, Representative Derell Wilson — himself a Norwich Public Schools alum — and Norwich Public Utilities’ Jeff Brining also shared remarks celebrating the day’s significance. The event concluded with a ceremonial groundbreaking in front of the school, symbolizing the start of a new era for Norwich students and families.