HENDERSONVILLE — Several schools across the Diocese of Charlotte have completed dramatic renovations over the summer months, and additional capital projects are well underway.
Immaculata School had an exterior facelift and major interior improvements related to critical technology and safety systems.
The $900,000 remodeling project is made possible thanks to a portion of the $2.3 million Immaculate Conception Parish capital campaign, including a $475,000 grant from the Diocese of Charlotte’s “Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love” campaign.
Updates to the 94-year-old school include a new double-door security vestibule, new reception area, security cameras and visitor check-in system using Lobby Guard to screen all visitors.
New key card access and intercom systems have been installed, all locks have been changed, and significant upgrades to the school’s technology infrastructure have been made. Teachers are also receiving new laptops.
New, energy-efficient windows have been installed in the front of the school, restrooms have been remodeled, ceilings and lighting have been replaced in some classrooms, and a canopy has been added over a new front sidewalk.
The school’s parking lot has also been freshened up with new striping.
Additional safety preparations for opening this fall have also been made. Students’ and teachers’ desks have Plexiglas panels, and the remodeled bathrooms have automatic faucets. Touchless sanitizer stations are located in every classroom and throughout the school, and water bottle filling stations have replaced water fountains.
Other notable schools projects over summer include:
— SueAnn Howell, Senior reporter
Pictured: Immaculata School in Hendersonville and St. Ann School in Charlotte have each received a facelift recently. Students, staff and families will notice the changes when they enter their respective schools this fall. (Photos provided by Emmett Sapp and Tim Buckman)
GASTONIA — St. Michael middle school students recently elected eighth-grader Jean-Claude Younan as president and seventh-grader Connie Okonkwo as vice president of the school’s 2020-2021 Beta Club.
— Photo provided by Christine Eagan