BIG CYPRESS — Ahfachkee School students, teachers and staff watched as the final steel beam was positioned into place during the topping off ceremony for the school’s new elementary school building May 11 on the Big Cypress Reservation. A traditional topping off ceremony is a milestone that signifies the structural completion of a building.

Before the beam was lifted into place, students, teachers, community members and tribal dignitaries left their mark by signing it. As it was hoisted over the entrance of the new building, principal Philip Baer led the students in a chant, “Lift that beam!”

“The students didn’t understand what the beam was for,” Baer said. “I told them their signature will be part of the school and tribal history. Then they understood it.”

The 49,835 square-foot building is scheduled for completion in mid-December and the students should move into the new facility in January 2024.

The building features 21 new classrooms, a music lab, computer lab, multipurpose spaces, a wellness center, locker rooms and gymnasium complete with a stage and a full size competition-quality wood floor.

After the ceremony, construction workers, executives and tribal dignitaries gathered for lunch in the unfinished gymnasium.

“Thank you for your dedication and commitment to come out here and build this for our kids,” said Big Cypress Councilwoman Mariann Billie. “Thank you to the past administrations, too. This was a group effort.”

Executive director of Administration Lee Zepeda was once a teacher and then principal of the school. He addressed the construction workers.

“I know the drive isn’t easy, so I appreciate what you do,” Zepeda said. “Big Cypress has needed this for a very long time.”

“You guys have done a phenomenal job,” said Tribal Community Development executive director Derek Koger. “We appreciate you working with us to get the right project for the community.”