Truesdell Elementary Opens Its Doors to a Brighter Future
Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for Truesdell Elementary School (photo © Sam Johnson)
$82.9 million modernization project brings sustainable design, expanded early childhood programs, and renewed community pride to Ward 4
Truesdell Elementary School in Ward 4 officially opened its doors this fall with a ribbon-cutting celebration that brought together city leaders, educators, students, and community members. The event marked the completion of an $82.9 million modernization project that transforms Truesdell into one of the most forward-thinking and inclusive learning environments in the District.
Bryan “Scottie” Irving (left) and Baboucarr Cham (right) pose for a photo with Mayor Muriel Bowser after cutting the ribbon (Photo © Sam Johnson)
A School Reimagined
The modernization seamlessly blends history and innovation. The original 1920s school building has been carefully renovated, while a new three-story classroom wing replaces an outdated 1960s structure. Additions include a state-of-the-art gymnasium, dining hall, arts classrooms, and a multipurpose field house. A central courtyard ties the campus together, offering students and teachers a safe and inspiring place to learn, play, and gather.
“This is more than just a school modernization — today we are celebrating two big wins for our community: a beautiful new Truesdell Elementary that will serve families for generations to come, and the first day of Pre-K for our youngest learners,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Building for Sustainability and Health
Truesdell’s design aims for Net Zero Energy and is targeting both LEED Gold and WELL Gold certifications. From geothermal wells and rooftop solar panels to advanced ventilation and LED lighting, every element supports efficiency, wellness, and environmental responsibility. The field house features mass timber construction — a first of its kind for a DC public school — highlighting the city’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Collaboration Behind the Scenes
Team members from CWC, Blue Skye Construction, and VMDO Architects pose for a photo in front of the building (Photo © Sam Johnson)
The modernization was led by the DC Department of General Services and DC Public Schools, with VMDO-DC as architect and a joint venture between Blue Skye Construction and Coakley & Williams Construction serving as general contractor. Engineering partners included SK&A for structural, CMTA for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and SGH for building enclosure and exterior envelope expertise.
“I want to thank the hardworking men and women who helped design this facility, including the VMDO architecture team,” said Delano Hunter, Director of the DC Department of General Services. “And last but not least, the hardworking men and women of one of our most successful JVs — the partnership between Coakley & Williams Construction and Blue Skye.”
Supporting Teachers and Classrooms
At the ribbon cutting, the design-build team — Blue Skye Construction, Coakley & Williams Construction, and VMDO — also recognized that a building is only as strong as the people who fill it. To ensure teachers started the year fully equipped, the team donated every item on their Amazon wishlists and supported projects from the school’s DonorsChoose fundraising page. From classroom supplies to books and art materials, these contributions helped reduce the burden on educators and gave students the tools they need to thrive.
“This project shows what’s possible when our team, the school, the city, and the community align on vision and values,” said Baboucarr Cham of Coakley & Williams Construction. “We’re proud to see Truesdell become a place where children can learn in a healthy, sustainable, inspiring environment — and that teachers have what they need to teach their best.”
Photo © Sam Johnson
Impact Beyond the Building
For students, the new Truesdell means brighter, healthier classrooms and expanded early childhood opportunities, including free full-day Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs and a child development center serving infants and toddlers. For teachers, it means resources and environments that support creativity and reduce stress. And for the surrounding community, it means a hub for connection, pride, and long-term investment in the neighborhood’s future.
As the ribbon was cut, it was clear this was not just the start of a school year, but the beginning of a new chapter for Truesdell — one where modern facilities, dedicated educators, and community support come together to build brighter futures for children across Ward 4.
