SYRACUSE — After two years of a planning and construction, the public was invited to check out the new Syracuse Elementary School during an open house event held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10.

Ava Wedly, Bria Mikley, Dana Cripe and Max Taylor, lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by a benediction.Brian Bohlender, Barton-Coe-Vilamaa Architects, said “I just wanted to say… our entire team is proud to see this vision realized.” He noted it was a great feeling to see everyone come together to work on the project.

Beth Gibson, representing Fetters Construction, thanked everyone involved in the project. “It was great to walk the halls and see the teachers and students in action,” she said.

Principal Eric Speicher, told the crowd the school family feels blessed to be able to work, learn and play in the new building. He said seeing the looks on the students faces on Aug. 14, the first day of school, was one of his best in his 18 year career. He was even thanked by a kindergarten for building them a new school.

Wawasee Community School Board President Becky Linnemeier, said, “The work that has gone into this was amazing.”

Wawasee Community School Superintendent Dr. Tom Edington noted how teachers and administrators worked together with contractors to construct a good flexible education space for the students. Built in technology and energy saving features provide benefits now and in the future.

Edington noted those who played important roles in the process of bringing the new school to life. He told the crowd there were a few things that still needed to be done, such as graphics on the hall way walls, but they didn’t want to rush the finishing touches.

After the presentations, fourth and fifth graders  wearing bright yellow T-shirts dispersed through the school to answer questions people may have as they went on self-guided tours. There was also cake and cookies served in the cafeteria.