FREDERICK, MD - Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot made a stop in Frederick Thursday to see a multi-million dollar school renovation project.
West Frederick Middle School is in tip-top shape thanks to $38.4 million in improvements. $16 million of the funds came from the state.
"When I heard the comptroller was coming to town to tour our school, I thought it was important to come out here and support the renovation projects that occur and are necessary. We know that this isn't the last renovation project for a school in the city that needs to be done. Frederick High School is on the horizon. North Frederick Elementary School is upcoming," said Michael O'Connor, (D) - Frederick Alderman.
Franchot came out to the school during construction two years ago, and now he's here to see the results.
"We need to make those investments, but we need to do it in a fiscally responsible way. It can't all be accountability and don't spend money. Part of it has got to be make the investments," Franchot (D) said.
The fitness room is a part of the renovations. It has everything from ellipticals and treadmills to stationary bicycles and stair steppers so students can climb their way to physical and academic success.
"Among the renovations we have are the technology pieces in the classrooms. You will see integrated promethean boards with computers that really aid with hands-on instruction in the classroom," said Ann Bonitatibus, chief operating officer for Frederick County Public Schools.
Some other improvements include new heating and cooling systems and a new 20,000 square foot classroom addition.
"I think that when you have better tools for learning and when your school is bigger, you have more of a motivation to learn," said Adrianna Balbrun, an 8th grader.
"These kids are going to be the source of tremendous economic activity, and they're going to contribute to the quality of life in Maryland," Franchot said.
This is a quality of life Franchot hopes can be an example for the rest of the state.
West Frederick Middle School was built back in 1958. The original building has been completely modernized.
