Concordia East – Early Head Start School

Concordia East – Early Head Start School represents a cornerstone of our commitment at J. Benton Construction to advancing educational infrastructure in the Virgin Islands. This project was made possible by an unprecedented $42,453,995 in federal construction grants from the US Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Office of Head Start. With zero local matches required, this funding enabled us to comprehensively rebuild the territory’s Head Start infrastructure, including the construction of a state-of-the-art multi-classroom center at the Charles H. Emmanuel Elementary School site, the demolition and rebuilding of the Concordia Head Start, the construction of a new center at the DHS Bolongo property, and a mega center at the Tabor and Harmony site.

Our involvement began when we were approached by the Executive Team from Lutheran Social Services (LSS) after the initial contractors failed to meet their obligations, causing delays and jeopardizing the project’s funding. We accepted the challenge and successfully led the construction of the first new educational facility on St. Croix in over 20 years. The completed facility includes six classrooms, 24 restrooms, offices, laundry, multi-purpose rooms, and a commercial kitchen. With terrazzo flooring, large clerestory windows, storefronts for natural light and ventilation, a bus canopy, a playground area, a generator building, and a 170,000-gallon cistern, we have ensured a robust and modern educational environment.

This project exemplifies our dedication to creating efficient, functional, and state-of-the-art learning spaces. The Concordia East – Early Head Start School meets the latest education standards, providing spacious and accessible restrooms, well-equipped staff offices, and various functional rooms to support daily operations. The commercial kitchen, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, prepares healthy and nutritious meals, promoting students’ well-being and academic success. We are honored to have contributed to this significant milestone in the Virgin Islands’ educational landscape, ensuring a brighter future for the community.