A groundbreaking ceremony is a kickoff event that marks the beginning of construction for a new building. For our Ferndale community, the groundbreaking for the new FHS facility was a day we have waited long to celebrate, one that was preceded by years of planning, gathering input, passing a bond measure, assembling a team, developing a construction budget, creating a design, and holding hundreds of meetings.

Our April 27 groundbreaking program -- which was planned and put on with the assistance of high student leaders -- was a wonderful chance to bring people together to celebrate the progress we have made and also to express gratitude to everyone who has helped bring the project to this critical milestone.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us for the groundbreaking, including so many of the community members who have played parts in turning the dream of a new high school into a reality -- members of the Bond Task Force who planned the bond package; the Citizens’ Committee who worked so hard to get it passed; the Bond Oversight Committee who are helping to ensure the project is delivered on time, on budget, and as promised; and the School Board who have provided unwavering leadership through all of it.

In addition, we were honored with remarks from the Mayor of Ferndale, the Chairman of the Lummi Nation, the lead designer from Dykeman Architects, and our general contractor from Cornerstone General Contractors.

We have reprinted below the entire agenda for the Groundbreaking, along with several photos taken by Ferndale City Councilperson Erin Gunter.