WINCHESTER, VA — Earlier this week, Winchester Public Schools awarded design and construction management contracts for the rehabilitation and transformation of two former school buildings into vibrant new uses.
Douglas School
CJMW Architecture of Lynchburg has been chosen to rehabilitate the historic Douglas School, on Kent Street, into Winchester’s central school administration offices. When complete, the building will also house space for community events and activities. The stately brick building, constructed in a Classical Revival style, was built in 1927 and served as a school for African-American students until 1966. In 1999, this building was designated a historic landmark on the Virginia Landmarks Register.
Shihadeh Innovation Center
VMDO Architects of Charlottesville will lead the design team to transform the former John Kerr Elementary School into the new Emil and Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center. The Innovation Center is a joint venture with Winchester Public Schools, Lord Fairfax Community College, and local industry partners. It will train youth and adults to meet the demands of the regional job market. Three academies will be housed at the Innovation Center — Information Technology Academy, Professional Skills Academy, and Health Sciences Academy.
Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc. has been chosen to serve as construction manager for both the Douglas School and Innovation Center projects. Each project is estimated to take 12 to 15 months to complete.
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