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Middlesex, NC, Oct 22 - U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge today toured Middlesex Elementary and received an update on the ongoing school construction. He was joined USDA Deputy Undersecretary Victor Vasquez, school leaders and local officials. Middlesex elementary was awarded an $8.4 million loan from the USDA for school construction and renovation.

“Education is key to creating good jobs and long-term economic prosperity,” said Etheridge. “I want all of our children to go to good schools and get a good education so they will be able to succeed in the 21st century economy.”
 
“On behalf of Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools, we would like to thank Congressman Etheridge for his efforts in helping our system secure the funding for this much needed project at Middlesex Elementary. This community has waited a long time for this project and we all are excited about impact it will have on students and staff,” said Superintendent Rick McMahon.  

The project calls for the demolition of the oldest building on the school campus and the construction of a new 19,000 square foot building that will provide 15 new classrooms and an updated administrative and support services office area.

In addition, the existing kitchen and cafeteria areas in the existing gym facility will be renovated and expanded to provide service for the growing student population. The gym building renovation will also include additional restroom facilities as well as music and art classrooms.

The construction and renovation will join the new classroom building and the existing gym building together under one roof so that children will not need to leave the security of the building to move between the classrooms, gym, and cafeteria areas.

“Education is economic development – it is our competitive advantage in a global economy when it comes to job creation,” said Etheridge.