With the sky overhead and a crane lifting the final steel beam into place, Ware County Schools commemorated a major milestone in the construction of the new Waycross Middle School facility during a Topping Out Ceremony held May 1, 2025 on site.
This traditional ceremony — observed when the highest point of a structure is reached — brought together members of the construction team, architect Doug Neal, representatives from JCI Contractors, and school and district leaders to recognize the progress made and the collaborative effort behind the build.
Principal David Hitt welcomed guests to the site, and Superintendent Dr. Lynn Barber reflected on the significance of the event: “This school represents our community’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and opportunity. Today is a symbol of progress — not just in construction, but in what we’re building for our students' futures.”
Also in attendance were district leadership team members Kim Bennett, John Chancey, Mary Ann Chaney, Paige Coker, Mandy Harper, Dean Moody, Melissa Shields, and Dr. Shelli Tyre. School Board Members Barry Deas, Karen Etheridge, Toni Nelson, Edward Tyre, and Brandi Waters also joined the celebration.
The final beam — signed by team members — was lifted into place, honoring a long-standing tradition that symbolizes growth, good fortune, and respect for those who made the construction possible.
The new facility is set to open in the 2026-2027 school year and will offer modern classrooms, collaborative learning spaces, and improved safety features — a campus designed with both students and staff in mind.
As Ware County continues to invest in future-focused education, today's ceremony is a powerful reminder of what’s possible through vision, teamwork, community support, and SPLOST pennies!
