Construction crews are wrapping up the major structural work at the addition to Carl Sandburg Middle School this month and preparing for the next phase of the project, which includes interior finishing.

The project, which will cost approximately $7 million, will include a handicapped accessible stage, dressing rooms, and storage areas. It began in March 2025 and should be completed in the spring of 2026. The project remains on schedule and within budget.

“It’s exciting to see this project take shape,” said Dr. Corey Tafoya, Superintendent of Districts 75 and 120. “We’re grateful for all the people who have helped get us to the point we are now, and we look forward to the day when we can celebrate its completion.”

The entire project is now enclosed with roofs and gutters complete. Interior doors have been hung, and bathroom walls and floors were completed the last week of October. Workers poured the sidewalks the last week of October. In early October, a construction crew completed an underground retention system at the southeast corner of the school property. The system is designed to slow down the flow of water into the village’s drain system. 

Inside, workers will be painting, installing toilets and sinks, finishing the greenroom, and more. Workers will also build the glass-enclosed foyer at the school’s main entrance. The new vestibule will be equipped with new technology, enhancing safety and security, and a place for students to sit before and after school. 

The stage will occupy the school’s south gym space. The room will have a large stage on the east side with room for about 200 seats during a performance. The room will continue to be used for the school’s Adaptive PE program. It will also provide a much-needed dedicated practice room for performing arts.