LITCHFIELD PARK, AZ — The Agua Fria High School District (AFHSD) with McCarthy Building Companies and ADM Group celebrated topping out the Hilltop School for the Arts and Theater. The significant construction milestone was marked with a beam signing ceremony followed by the placement of the final structural beam on the 115,111-square-foot project, commemorating the project’s progress.
Construction of the district’s new school and theater includes the building of a 34,034-square-foot performing arts center that features front of house space, a lobby, and seating for over 700 as well as a two-story back of house area with multi-use space and a food service area. Additionally, the project includes the construction of two single-level high-tech classroom buildings, a two-story building with a black box, media center, cafeteria, administrative offices, and additional classrooms.
In addition to community members and the construction team, the event was attended by Litchfield Park Mayor Schoaf, district staff, members of the district’s Governing Board, and residents from the neighboring La Loma community.
“The beam represents more than steel and signatures,” said Kristen Acton, AFHSD Governing Board President. “It symbolizes our shared commitment to students, families, and this community. Every decision behind this project was made with learning, opportunity, and long-term impact in mind.”
“We can’t wait to have students walk through these doors,” said Julie Jones, Principal at Hilltop School for the Arts and Theater. “And as we sign this beam, ... I am reminded that it is their courage to create, perform, and grow that is the heart of Hilltop. They are the ones who inspire us and remind us why this work matters.”
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With the structural framework now complete, construction at Hilltop School for the Arts and Theater will continue into its next phases. The nearly $74.5 million project, which began construction in May 2025, is tracking to complete by fall 2026. McCarthy Building Companies is the general contractor for the project, and ADM Group is the designer.
