On September 14, the Manchester community gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of Keeney Elementary School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This marks a major milestone in the town’s commitment to sustainability and educational excellence. Keeney Elementary is the last of three Manchester elementary schools to complete comprehensive “renovate-as-new” projects, achieving Net Zero energy status alongside Buckley and Bowers Elementary schools.
Right: Brian Murphy (Building Committee Chair) photographed by Paul Ofria; Left: Mayor Jay Moran
The ceremony included speeches from members of the Board of Education, the School Building Committee, and Manchester public officials. Mayor Jay Moran delivered a heartfelt address, praising the community for its dedication to students and environmental sustainability. “This project is a testament to our collective investment in our children’s future and our commitment to creating a sustainable, innovative environment for learning,” said Mayor Moran.
Community members were invited to tour the newly renovated facility after the ribbon cutting. Keeney Elementary now stands as the third Net Zero energy school in Manchester and the fourth in Connecticut, showcasing the district's leadership in sustainable design. Originally opened in 1955, the 56,400 sq. ft. school has been transformed into a state-of-the-art learning environment for Kindergarten through fourth grade students. Key features of the renovation include a photovoltaic-topped entry canopy, a sundial in the courtyard, and a new STEAM suite. Additionally, the outdoor courtyard adjacent to the cafeteria offers students spaces for discovery, exploration, and creativity.
The renovation of Keeney Elementary School marks the completion of Manchester’s comprehensive 10-year school redevelopment project. Phase 1 began in 2014 and included renovating Cheney-Bennet, Verplanck, and Waddell elementary schools. Phase 2 saw the transformation of Buckley, Bowers, and now Keeney elementary schools. TSKP STUDIO is proud to have partnered with the Manchester community to guide these projects through two successful referendums, ensuring they were completed on schedule and on budget.
As the community celebrated the reopening of Keeney Elementary, they also celebrated a renewed commitment to providing quality education in sustainable, innovative spaces that will serve students for generations to come.
Case Study: Keeney Elementary School - Manchester, CT
In the News: Keeney Elementary reopens for the start of Manchester's 2024-25 school year
WATCH: First day at Manchester’s newly renovated Keeney Elementary
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