Calumet Middle School in Calumet Park recently celebrated the grand opening of its new 21,670-square-foot addition that features a gymnasium with spectator seating, a walking track, concession space, and locker rooms. The addition also includes fully functional classrooms with Smartboards, multi-purpose space, a STEAM lab, meeting rooms, and ample storage.

Before the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and self-guided tours of the new addition, various dignitaries greeted guests and expressed their gratitude to everyone involved in making the new space a reality. Among the speakers were Mrs. Agurann Bates, Executive Director of Academic Services for the District; Mr. Turon Ivy, Principal of Calumet Middle School; Dr. Marcus Alexander, Superintendent of Schools for Calumet Public School District 132; Dr. Steven Isoye, Chairman, Illinois State Board of Education; and Ms. Synathia Harris, School Board President. Representatives from DLA Architects, General Contractor Henry Bros. Co., and Robinson Engineering, also offered remarks.

The celebration concluded with an outdoor luncheon reception, where guests were treated to a performance by the Thornton Township High School District 205 Jazz Band.