Students and staff pose with politicians on the stage after the ceremony

The Homestead-Wakefield Elementary School community came together on Saturday, October 4, 2025, to celebrate a moment years in the making, the rededication of their new unified school building.

Principal Chris Cook addressing those in attendance, with a tiger statue in the foreground

Students, staff, families, alumni, and local officials filled the gymnasium to mark the occasion, which honored both the school’s proud history and its exciting future. The celebration featured remarks from Principal Chris Cook and Dr. Sean Bulson, Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, as well as presentations from students, the PTA and other community leaders.

Earlier this summer, staff moved into the new building ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. Read more about that milestone here.

Dr. Sean Bulson speaking at the re-dedication ceremony

Guests joined in singing the Homestead-Wakefield school song, led by instrumental music teacher Mrs. Kateri Morrison, and watched as a local Boy Scout Troop and Girl Scout Troup presented the flags and lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of cornerstone items, which will be sealed in a time capsule within the building. Items included:

  • Signatures from students, staff, and attendees

  • 2025 coins

  • The school’s vision and mission

  • The 2024–2025 yearbook

  • The dedication booklet

  • An HCPS logo pin

After some encouragement, Dr. Bulson also included one of his coveted bowties to the collection.

Student and staff member prepare a document to add to  the corner stone

Homestead-Wakefield parent adds a yearbook to the capstone

Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments and memorabilia in the cafeteria and took part in self-guided tours of the building. Visitors explored modern classrooms, flexible learning spaces, and shared areas that bring together what were once two separate campuse into one vibrant learning environment.

Homestead-Wakefield Elementary School teacher shows off new classroom to a studentCommunity members tour the halls of Homestead-Wakefield Elementary School

Homestead-Wakefield Elementary School, located at 900 South Main Street in Bel Air, serves nearly 1,100 students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. The new facility spans 141,936 square feet and was constructed at a cost of $60.6 million. The project was designed by Banta Campbell Architects and managed by J. Vinton Schafer & Sons, Inc.