On March 31, Austin ISD celebrated the grand opening of the modernized Murchison Middle School as part of the 2017 Bond Program. Below is a full recording of the virtual event, which included a ribbon-cutting, performance by the Murchison band and cheerleaders, school tour and a video of students sharing what they love most about their school.

The modernization includes a three-story addition with classroom studios, three learning neighborhoods, makerspaces, science rooms and an open collaboration area. These spaces prevent overcrowding and allow for the majority of portables to be removed from the campus. The project included renovations to the existing building, including the library and administration area.

While we wish we were able to hold this event in person, due to health and safety reasons, the district opted for a virtual event to ensure the full school community was still able to celebrate the grand opening. The event was held virtually via Zoom webinar and featured live remarks from Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Elizalde, Board of Trustees President Geronimo Rodriguez, District 7 Trustee Kristin Ashy and Murchison Principal Beth Newton.

The program for the event can be found here.

Watch the recording of the full event below and use the closed captioning found here.

Principal Newton celebrated with the school community by cutting the ceremonial ribbon on behalf of the school community and give us a look inside the school. Check out the school tour below: