Bechtel Elementary School project breaks ground

A groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Bechtel Elementary School renovation and new construction project, located on Camp McTureous in Okinawa, Japan, on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

The ceremony marks the beginning of construction at the $125 million project, which 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.

During construction, Bechtel Elementary will continue to operate out of Kadena Elementary (Universal Prekindergarten, Kindergarten, and Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities) and Ryukyu Middle (grades 1-5). 

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade education programs for school-aged children of Department of Defense personnel who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA schools are located in Europe, the Pacific, Western Asia, the Middle East, Cuba, the United States, Guam, and Puerto Rico. DoDEA also provides support and resources to Local Educational Activities throughout the U.S. that serve children of military families.