Ground broken for new Cadott School additions

Tech ed students at Cadott, were a little exuberant, when it came to tossing out the first shovelfuls of dirt, which officially began construction of not only a new tech ed facility at the high school, but also other needed additions. Overseen by CESA 10, Hoeft Builders was selected to do the main project, which is expected to be completed by the beginning of the 2025 school year. Photo by Ginna Young

By Ginna Young

Ground was officially broken Nov. 12, in Cadott, for the improvements at the Cadott High School, for a project that adds 29,306 square feet of new space. That includes a state-of-the-art technical education center, equipped with $400,000 of advanced equipment, three new classrooms, a new district office, a safe and secure entrance, updated classroom furniture, new boilers to improve heating, a new chiller designed for future expansion of the school, with the A/C system, a newly renovated library and a fitness center, with equipment.

The work comes after a $9.9 million capital maintenance referendum was passed by voters, who recognized that in order to move forward, changes were needed at the high school building.

“Their commitment makes this all possible,” said district administrator Josh Spaeth.

Originally, the scope of the work was more modest; however, with the approved funds by taxpayers, board of education approval and Spaeth’s background in construction, the overall footage has increased, while staying in budget.

“Today, thanks to our community’s support, we’re creating something far greater – a facility that will always serve and impact our students, for generations to come,” said Spaeth.

Work is expected to be completed by the time the 2025 school year begins.

While many of the additions are much needed, perhaps the biggest investment and impact, will be at the tech ed center, including a full auto lab, where the students will work on cars, instead of just small engines. Because of the increased space, it also allows the potential for Cadott to have learning academies on-site.

“It gives more opportunities during the school day, to students,” said student Gavin Roscoe.

In just the first year in shop, student Olive LaRose is enjoying the things that are taught and feels a new tech ed center will only help enhance the learning process.

“It really gives you the hands-on experience that you need in real life, even if you’re not going in a certain career field that has to do with the class,” said LaRose.