Phase II Expansion of Cullman Middle School Officially Opens

Cullman City Schools celebrated the opening of Phase II of the Cullman Middle School expansion project on January 11, 2026. City and state officials participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the completion of a significant upgrade to the school’s facilities. The event allowed community members to explore newly finished instructional spaces designed to enhance the educational experience for students.

The vision for the expansion began in summer 2021, when the Cullman City School Board aimed to create a safe, modern campus that provides both adequate academic space and diverse extracurricular opportunities. Groundbreaking took place in May 2022, leading to the creation of a state-of-the-art facility that replaces some of the oldest buildings in the district.

Enhanced Learning Environments

Cullman City Schools Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff expressed gratitude for the collaboration that made the project possible. “Many of us have driven by the corner of Oak Street and Second Avenue over the past few years and have seen the transformation of this campus from the ground up,” Kallhoff said. He emphasized that the support from the mayor and the Cullman city council was crucial in realizing the capital plan.

Phase II of the expansion includes several core curriculum classrooms, along with specialized facilities such as a modern media center, dedicated band and choir rooms, agriculture and consumer science classrooms, an art studio, two science labs, a STEM lab, a Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) lab, an agriscience lab, a health science classroom, and a special needs classroom. These additions aim to facilitate hands-on learning, which Kallhoff noted is essential for both teachers and students.

Many of the new classrooms are equipped for lab-based instruction and feature updated technology and furnishings. The expansion is expected to improve student safety and accommodate the anticipated growth in the city. Additionally, the new space will help facilitate the transition of sixth grade students to the middle school campus in the upcoming academic year, with renovations planned for older wings to support this change.

Community Engagement and Future Aspirations

Visitors touring the facility were impressed by the modern classrooms and upgraded learning environments, which offer views of downtown Cullman and nearby athletic facilities. Kallhoff highlighted the importance of community involvement in showcasing how local education funds are being used to enhance schools and benefit both current and future students.

“This doesn’t just represent a new building, but a new chapter for Cullman Middle School and one of the most significant accomplishments here in more than 50 years,” said Jake Johnson, Principal of Cullman Middle School. He expressed appreciation for the community’s belief in the school’s potential.

Member of the Alabama State Board of Education, Marie Manning, commended the vision of Cullman City Schools, stating that the community is surrounded by excellence. Eric Mackey, the Alabama State Department of Education Superintendent, echoed this sentiment, noting the uplifting environment fostered by the school.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony attracted several state and local officials, including current and former school board members and Cullman City Council members. As the community celebrates this milestone, further renovations are planned for the original gym, built in 1936, and updates to classrooms that will soon accommodate sixth graders.

The Cullman Middle School project is part of a broader Safety and Growth Plan, which encompasses new construction and renovations across all campuses within the Cullman City Schools system. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that educational facilities meet the evolving needs of students and the community.