RSU 51: Carolyn F. Small School addition on track for late‑August completion; major roof work planned

Jeff Porter, superintendent, said the four‑classroom MIW addition at Carolyn F. Small School is on schedule and "should be done by the end of August," preparing the building to open for the new school year.

The addition has progressed from slab and stair concrete to framed interior walls. Representatives from Great Falls Construction — Jake, Travis and Bob — told the host that electrical, plumbing and mechanical rough‑ins are complete and crews have begun insulation and drywall work. Contractors said ducts were leak‑tested and plumbing and mechanical lines pressure‑tested as part of MEP commissioning, and a large air‑handler and condenser have been set on the roof.

The work sequence has followed the standard inspection and finishing order: in‑wall inspections for electrical and plumbing, insulation, drywall hanging, taping and the application of multiple coats of joint compound before painting and ceiling grid installation. Contractors said taping is underway and painters will apply a prime coat once surfaces are ready.

Crews said a major portion of the summer program is a full roof replacement. The existing ballasted membrane — which uses loose rock ballast — will be removed, damaged insulation replaced, and rooftop units temporarily jacked and re‑set so crews can install an adhered membrane that does not require ballast. Contractors estimated the roof replacement will take the summer to complete.

Contractors also described exterior work that includes installing a brick veneer to match the existing facade, fiber‑cement siding on the second floor to align with current materials, replacement of two large pyramid‑shaped fiberglass skylights, and pavement and landscaping near the superintendent’s office and front parking area. They noted that two large modular classroom units on site will remain in place until next year, which delays final paving and landscaping in that area.

Quantities and schedule details provided in the update include an expected completion window of "by the end of August," three total coats of joint compound on drywall joints, and the roof work spanning the full summer. The contractors said utility connections and fire service work were done during April break to minimize disruption to occupied school operations.

Porter and the construction team said interior finishes and exterior finishing work will continue through summer with the goal of making classrooms ready for occupancy at the start of the school year. The video closed with a thank you to viewers and an invitation for community members who are available over the summer to visit the site or assist with minor tasks.

The update did not specify contract values, contractor schedules with exact start/end dates, or the removal date for the modular units beyond "next year."