Warsaw — The final beam is in place on the framework of the new Lincoln Elementary School, Warsaw.

Students, teachers and school officials took part in a beam raising ceremony Friday morning, May 20. Earlier in the week, students had the opportunity to sign the beam, knowing their names will be a part of their new school for as long as the building stands.

“It’s kind of like writing your name on cement,” Warsaw Community School Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert commented.

Atop the beam were an American flag and a potted tree. According to Hoffert, the tree was to celebrate that there have been no injuries so far on the Lincoln School project. It was also to symbolize well-wishes for the new building.

Students chanted, “raise the beam, raise the beam,” as the crane hoisted it into place. After a round of enthusiastic applause, teachers and students headed back to class.

“We’re really excited to see the last beam in place and it’s really awesome that we’re able to build Lincoln school on its original property,” Jim LeMasters, project supervisor, said.