Community Celebrates Dumbarton Middle School Renovation

TOWSON, MD — Years of advocacy paid off at Dumbarton Middle School, where community members and students celebrated the updates to the more than 50-year-old building Wednesday with a special event that included a ribbon cutting and musical performances. Dumbarton Principal Sue Harris, Baltimore County Public Schools Interim Superintendent Verletta White and Baltimore County Executive Don Mohler were among those in attendance, alongside local leaders and residents.

"With the Dumbarton renovation, all schools in the Fifth District are air conditioned," said Councilman David Marks, whose district includes Towson.

Built in 1956, the school on Dumbarton Road was given a $27.8 million update that families said were needed for the school to maintain a healthy environment for learning.

"This morning, we officially 'cut the ribbon' on the renovated school, culminating a six-year effort by parents and community leaders..." Marks said.

He specifically credited the families and PTSA presidents over the years — Cheri Bond Pegues, Amy Kline and Aimee Freeman. They formed a group called Dumbarton United to mobilize the community.

"Thanks also to my colleagues in government, including the late Kevin Kamenetz," Marks said.

The Dumbarton Middle School renovation officially began in 2016, according to school board records.

The entrance, common area and music wing were among the areas that were refreshed, and the school was outfitted with air conditioning and upgraded technology systems, according to Baltimore County Public Schools officials.

Outdoor work such as removing portable classrooms and sidewalk improvements will take place during the summer months, according to The Baltimore Sun, which reported collaborative learning spaces, an audiovisual studio, larger science classrooms and new location for the library were part of the renovations.

Photos courtesy of Councilman David Marks and Baltimore County Public Schools.