Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Beginning of Construction for New Queen Anne’s County Public Schools Administrative Building
Queen Anne’s County Public Schools (QACPS) took a significant step forward in its infrastructure development with the groundbreaking ceremony held on February 22, 2024, for its new Administration Building. This event signifies the commencement of construction on a modern facility that will serve as the administrative hub for the public school system in Queen Anne’s County.
During the ceremony remarks were provided by Todd Mohn, County Administrator, Jim Moran, County Commission President, Helen Bennett, Board of Education President, and Dr. Patricia Saelens, Superintendent of Schools. The event was live streamed by Queen Anne’s County Television and can be viewed here https://www.youtube.com/live/Soe8wtl238k?si=EVisGWJfb8IzXVTC
In 1979, administrative operations for QACPS were relocated to the former Centreville High School building. This location is over 120 years old, and its age and inefficiency prompted the decision to pursue a new facility.
After a competitive selection process, Wheeler Goodman Masek, based in Stevensville, Maryland, was chosen to provide architectural design and project administration services for the new 34,000 square foot central office building. Situated between the Queen Anne’s County Office Building and Queen Anne’s County High School in Centreville, the new facility will offer departmental offices, conference rooms, a multi-function meeting room, and various support spaces to accommodate the operations of the Board of Education.
The design of the central office building reflects a forward-thinking approach, with departmental office spaces organized in 4,000 square foot blocks to ensure flexibility and efficiency. Shed roof structures allow for diffused natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and promoting energy conservation. The exterior features a blend of materials, including red brick reminiscent of downtown Centreville, standing seam metal roofing, and translucent panels, creating a contemporary yet contextual aesthetic.
The new central office building is expected to be completed by Autumn 2025, following an anticipated 18 months of construction. Upon its completion, the facility will house modern, energy-efficient mechanical and electrical systems, including geothermal heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC), ensuring sustainability for years to come.
Once operational, the new central office building will provide an optimal environment for supporting the educational needs of Queen Anne’s County students and faculty.