DoDEA Pacific South District leaders visit Bechtel, Lester construction sites
OKINAWA, JAPAN – Department of Defense Education Activity – Pacific South District leaders and facilities personnel conducted construction site visits at Bechtel Elementary School, located on Camp McTureous, and the new Lester Middle School campus, located on Camp Foster in March, 2025.
“It’s exciting to see the renderings for Bechtel and Lester physically taking shape as these projects continue to progress,” said DoDEA Pacific South District Community Superintendent Mr. Craig Maxey. “We will continue to share updates with families throughout the construction progress.”
At the Bechtel Elementary School renovation and new construction site, leaders toured the perimeter of the facility, noting the new construction areas and discussing how they will be seamlessly integrated with existing buildings currently under renovation. The $125 million Bechtel project includes new construction of approximately 81,000 square feet and extensive renovations of 68,094 square feet to the existing building. The project also includes new furnishings and playground improvements. When complete, Bechtel Elementary will feature student-centered design elements including neighborhood instructional spaces and furnishings that support collaboration and community. The project is currently on schedule to be completed in late 2027.
While visiting the new Lester Middle School campus, leaders had the opportunity to enter the construction area, walking through what will become the school’s front entrance, multipurpose area, and a hallway leading to 21st century classrooms. A Host Nation-funded project, the new Lester Middle School campus will feature basketball courts, a baseball field, an athletic field, and a jogging path. The project is anticipated to be completed in late 2026.
