Select images courtesy of Blach Construction; Renderings by Robert Becker
HILLSBOROUGH, Calif. (June 24, 2026) – Hillsborough City School District (HCSD) recently celebrated the groundbreaking of a major redevelopment project at Crocker Middle School. Designed by Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) and being built by Blach Construction (Blach), the new Multipurpose and Administration Buildings will modernize outdated facilities for the campus’s 450 students in grades sixth through eighth. Van Pelt Construction Services (VPCS) serves as program and construction manager.
“We are thrilled to begin construction on these new facilities, a critical investment for our students and staff,” said HCSD Superintendent Ana de Arce. “These modern and adaptable spaces will provide the backbone by which the campus functions, reflecting the district’s dedication to our community’s future. We would like to thank the community for its support of local bond measures that make facilities upgrades a reality, as well as our dedicated project team.”
The new Multipurpose Building (MPR) will replace the school’s existing kitchen, stage, and assembly space. The facility is set to include a raised performance space, a meal servery, and a warming kitchen. A center piece of the project, a retractable back wall will open directly out to the campus’s new expansive outdoor courtyard. This student quad will serve as a flexible gathering space for lunch, performances, school events, and community activities, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor learning and gathering spaces.
“Alongside HCSD, Blach and Van Pelt, we are honored to contribute to this project that will replace some of the school’s more outdated facilities with contemporary, flexible, and cohesive environments,” said Lyanne Schuster, principal and studio lead at QKA. “These new facilities are designed to foster collaboration and gathering, ensuring the long-term success of the Crocker Middle School campus.”
The project also includes a new Administration Building, connected to the MPR by a covered walkway. In addition to administrative offices, a nurse’s station, and a reception area, the building will feature a courtyard and partial roof terrace that expand the campus’s outdoor gathering spaces.
“This project illustrates how building success is driven by strong partnerships between the district, and project and construction management teams,” said Blach Construction Project Director Dean Leyshock. “By prioritizing a safe, streamlined process, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, modern facilities for faculty and students.”
Funded by Local Bond Measure H, construction of the 17,000 square-feet of new facilities is projected to conclude in Winter 2027.
About Hillsborough City School District
The Hillsborough City School District, located in the suburban community of Hillsborough on the San Francisco Peninsula, is made up of three elementary schools and one middle school. All four Hillsborough schools are recognized as California Distinguished Schools for exceptional student performance and instructional programs. In addition to academics, the District prides itself on helping nurture children to embody its Evolved Essential Outcomes. The District’s ongoing success is the result of high-quality educators, committed and involved families, a supportive Governance Team, and a common vision. For more information, visit hcsdk8.com
About Blach Construction
Founded in 1970, Blach Construction delivers structures of enduring quality and value throughout California. The firm’s diverse portfolio includes community-focused TK-12 and higher education facilities, modern civic and workplace environments, and affordable, supportive and market-rate housing developments. The firm is consistently ranked among California’s top contractors by Engineering News-Record and has received multiple Construction Safety Excellence Awards from the Associated General Contractors of California.
For more information, visit blach.com or connect with the company on LinkedIn.
About Van Pelt Construction Services (VPCS)
Founded in 1996, VPCS provides program and construction management services to school districts and public agencies throughout California. From its headquarters in Fairfield and offices statewide, the firm’s education practice guides TK-12 and higher education bond programs from funding strategy and planning through design, construction, and closeout. VPCS is currently overseeing more than $5 billion in active school construction across the state. On this project, VPCS served as program and construction manager for Hillsborough City School District, partnering with Blach Construction and Quattrocchi Kwok Architects to deliver the project on schedule and on budget. For more information visit www.vpcsonline.com.
