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Construction on the new Wharton Dual Language Academy is now 95 percent complete with the project team, school principal, and teachers making plans to welcome students to the new facility in January.

Crews are currently wrapping up work on interior finishes and have begun waxing floors and sodding outdoor areas. All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are operational, data cable installation is complete, and final inspections are underway.

“Four years ago, we began planning. As we approach our move-in, it is exciting to see the final touches be put in place and to see our vision come to life,” Wharton Principal Jennifer Day said. “It is a beautiful facility, and we’re looking forward to our opening day with students in January.”

New furniture is set to be delivered this month, with set-up and completion of punch list items continuing through December. Students will report to the new facility when they return from winter break on Jan. 7.

The $39.2 million addition and renovation project is part of HISD’s voter-approved 2012 Bond Program. The original 89-year-old building underwent a complete interior renovation, while much of the original front facade was preserved. It was connected to a new, three-story addition, which is located at the rear of the building.

The expanded facility features new learning spaces and labs, a new gym and library, an interior courtyard that preserves heritage trees, and a grand, three-story glass entryway. The original building will house classrooms for the school’s youngest students.

Wharton is among 40 schools, including 29 high schools, being renovated or rebuilt as part of the 2012 Bond Program. More than 70 percent of all HISD construction projects are complete, and that number is expected to top 80 percent by the end of 2018.

Follow @Build_HISD on Twitter for the latest updates on the 2012 Bond Program and school construction across the district.