Shawano community members gathered with students, families, and representatives from the Shawano School District and Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of improvements to the Shawano Community High School Auditorium. The ceremony featured remarks from both Superintendent Kurt Krizan and School Board President Christine McKinnies.
Among the numerous auditorium upgrades are new seats, theatrical and house lighting, audio/visual system, control booth, scene shop and storage, and a brand-new orchestra pit, providing an enhanced space for student performances and fine arts programming. The project is a part of the Shawano School District Referendum that was approved in November 2024.
“The auditorium is an important space for our students to learn, perform, and share their talents with the community,” Superintendent Kurt Krizan said. “These enhancements will increase and support those opportunities for years to come. We are grateful for our partnership with Hoffman and for their work in helping transform our auditorium into a space that will greatly benefit our students and community.”
During the ceremony, school district officials were presented with a dedication plaque from Hoffman recognizing the District’s commitment to providing students with exceptional fine arts learning spaces.
“Spaces like this play a critical role in creating a well-rounded educational experience for students,” said Jody Andres, Hoffman K-12 Market Leader and Senior Project Architect. “It is really very rare for a district to put new features like the orchestra pit in an existing space. This drive for a top-performing facility reflects the District’s investment in its students and fine arts programs, and we’re proud to have played a role in creating a space that will serve both the school and community well into the future.”
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Photo caption for the image file titled _MG_0857: Shawano School District Superintendent Kurt Krizan (center left) cuts the ribbon during a ceremony celebrating the new auditorium. Also pictured are Board of Education President Christine McKinnies and Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction representatives Matt McGregor, Jerry Gmeiner and Casey Helmrath, along with district staff and project partners.
Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. is an Appleton-based design and construction management firm whose mission is to make a positive impact on people’s lives and their environment by providing creative ideas and responsible solutions. Serving as their ally, agent, and advocate, Hoffman always places their clients’ best interests first, focusing on transparency, collaboration, and fiscal responsibility. Hoffman’s integrated project delivery approach results in high performance and cost-effective building solutions that respect the environment, enhance long-term value, reduce lifecycle facility costs, and deliver to their clients more building for their budget. Learn more at www.hoffman.net.