The addition, which broke ground in December 2003, includes a number of firsts for the Cumberland County school: an auditorium and facilities specifically designated for recreational purposes. In addition to supplying the much needed space for community programming, it will also provide the necessary resources for the district to meet the physical health and recreational needs of its student body.

The expansion follows an earlier rehabilitation of the school that addressed pressing health needs, included new roofing, boilers, windows and asbestos removal. Until the expansion, space was severely limited and physical education classes were relegated to either a cafeteria that doubled as an all-purpose area, or outdoors. All instruction relating to music, choral and performing arts instruction was assigned to a small, crowded room.

"The opening of this auditorium is a real step forward for our schools and our community. We will finally be able to offer programs that are fundamental to the comprehensive development of our youth," Superintendent Shelly Schneider said.

Local, state and city officials also took part in the event, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the addition. Area Boy Scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance to open the ceremony, which also featured musical and vocal performances by Lakeside Middle School students. Student artwork and an exhibit of Japanese art and poetry were on display in the lobby of the new addition.