WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg-James City County Schools (WJCC Schools) commemorated the opening of a new Warhill High School auxiliary gymnasium on Dec. 6 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The auxiliary gymnasium is a 12,245-square-foot addition connected to the existing school through two new fireproof doors. The new space contains a multi-purpose room and additional restrooms and is a reinforced structure designed to also serve as a community shelter in emergency situations.
Other features include hardwood athletic floors in the gymnasium, new gymnasium equipment, bleachers, and all-new systems.
“We are delighted to celebrate the official opening of the Warhill Auxiliary Gym. This space is an asset to the Warhill Community and our greater community at large,” Olwen Herron, Ed.D., Williamsburg-James City County Schools superintendent said.
When not being used for athletics, the new space can transform into a testing center, performance space, community event venue, or emergency shelter, if needed.
“This new space is not just about physical space but creating opportunities for our students to grow, learn, and excel,” said Warhill High School Principal Michele Newcomb.
“We hope we’ll never need to use the shelter, yet, if needed, our community is secure knowing there is a place to go nearby in emergency situations that accepts pets,” James Falzone, Williamsburg-James City County Schools facilities and capital projects supervisor said.
The auxiliary gymnasium will also serve the greater community as a space available for public events.
Construction began on the project in 2023 and was completed in November.
