On 9 March, the wheels of progress began to turn as front-end loaders cleared topsoil from the site of the new addition to the Marquette/O'Keefe school. Over the next couple of weeks, foundation work continued as excavation equipment dug trenches and workers from J.H. Findorff, the general contractor, erected concrete forms for the footings and foundation. During this time, plans were finalized by the staff at Marquette for the moves that would be made necessary by the upcoming demolition and construction.

During Spring break, Ms. Feuling's fifth grade and Ms. Henze's fourth grade classrooms and the staff offices and workroom along the south side of the first floor were vacated so that work could be undertaken on those areas. In an interview with Marty Powers, Marquette's principal, he reported that relocated teachers were accommodated by storing excess equipment and adjusting existing space. Ms. Feuling's and Ms. Henze's classes were moved to Bethany Evangelical Free Church two blocks away. Mr. Powers stated that through minor revisions in the schedule plus beginning and ending each day at school, the two affected classes had a smooth transition to their new spaces. He also said that there should be no more moves necessary to facilitate construction.

In a talk with Fred Brechlin, Project Manager with Madison Metropolitan School District, it was confirmed that the project is on schedule with completion before the first day of school in August. He went on to say that work will progress with the focus being on the courtyard area, location of the new multipurpose room and the relocated IMC and cafeteria. During this time and over the next two months, the steel framework, the floors and the roof will be completed. The exterior walls and the entrance will follow, with the building being closed in by June. Interior work on these areas will progress as completion of the work allows.

- David Mandehr


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