Lakeside School

The new building is part of Lakeside's focus on Infrastructure, Operations, and Capacity as part of our strategic plan, Hope in Action. Our goal is to realize inspiring and secure campuses that support dynamic learning and community engagement. Learn more.

As anyone who has visited the Upper School campus can attest, Lakeside’s new academic building is getting closer to completion. The building will be the home of the school’s English and science departments, with 12 English and humanities classrooms and eight biology, physics, and chemistry/advanced science labs; faculty offices; a wide variety of community and meeting spaces; and outdoor spaces for learning and community-building.

The construction crew from BNBuilders has put in over 70,000 work hours thus far (and received over 43 permits from the city)! The team worked hard and long this summer, including the very visible (and loud) work necessary to connect utilities to the building. Their herculean efforts meant that the school was able to reopen all the planned parking areas and pedestrian access on campus for the start of school.

The exterior of the new building is now mostly complete. Much of the work this month is happening inside. Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler systems are substantially complete. Recently the team started on interior finishes, including interior windows, flooring, and casework.

BNB team leaders have been enjoying touring students, PGA volunteers, and faculty/staff through the building. Lakeside parent and PGA Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Nilu Jenks shared some of the things she appreciated on the tour: “I loved seeing the thoughtfulness of having a quieter space in the back that is facing the Middle School [and that will] welcome them to the Upper School, and how exciting to have a small to-go cafe for snacks” she said. “I think the students will find all kinds of ways to learn and connect with each other, and teachers will enjoy all the neat ways to have breakout groups to deepen engagement and learning for the students. I can't wait to see it all done!”

Currently, one of the most visible parts of the project is the bridge connecting the new building to Red Square and early stages of landscaping. As fall continues, they’ll be finishing pathways and paving, installing benches, and planting new trees and shrubs. Work is progressing on the sidewalk and fencing project along 1st Avenue. The main driveway at the Upper School is scheduled to fully reopen in early October. Please review the updated pickup and drop-off article and remember to walk, bike, and drive safely as you are getting to campus.

Watch the video below for a drone fly-through from this past August, and stay tuned for future updates!