Scott from the diocesan development office gave a presentation on the campaign for the new high school tonight. Dr. Vanders and the Langes also helped. I was glad to see that the room (at St. Margaret Mary) was full.
For HS details see the “Information about the School” category, but tonight there were some interesting new developments presented.
1) The chapel is intended not just for private reflection, but also to allow Eucharistic Adoration (which was wonderful to hear) – and does not have to be large enough for mass since the gym and church can be used for that.
2) They are on track for construction planning and zoning, and currently more than 75% through construction drawings
3) When asked about handling special needs children, Dr. Vanders noted the diocese’s desire to be able to accommodate some special needs children at the new high school (more if enough resources are available to hire a couple special education teachers).
4) Fundraising continues. They have the land and the campaign has raised 8 of the 15 million needed for the first phase. The second phase (to bring the capacity to about 500 students) would require about 8 million more and the third phase (to bring the capacity to at least 750) is about 6 million. They presented a chart with the cost breakdowns for each phase. This would be a great time to talk with Debbie and Scott. Dr. Vanders also indicated that they can envision expansion to 1000 students if necessary. Despite the larger than expected enrollment projections, the site can handle more than 750 if needed with smaller adjustments to the plans than one would think (the first phase already includes some of the more expensive costs cafeteria, library etc.)
5) the cafeteria is really a “cafetorium” (cafeteria/auditorium/2nd gym). Until the high school grows enough to need the whole thing it will be shared with Holy Family school (seems like common sense) – but with a barrier separating the High School children from the younger children.
6) Neenah is being extended to ease access to the site and a nearby neighborhood. Some sports fields and drainage area will be on the south side.
As Kevin Lange mentioned, few times in our lives do we get a chance to “make a difference” in the world – those donors are doing just that. Remember to contact Debbie Ortiz (debbie-ortiz@austindiocese.org) for more information.
