Gesu breaks ground for STREAM learning center

UH Mayor Susan Infeld, Pastor Karl Kiser, Principal Lucy Iemmolo and other guests posed for a photo before the groundbreaking ceremony.

Gesu Catholic School broke ground on Oct. 31, beginning the second phase of its STREAM initiative. University Heights Mayor Susan Infeld, Pastor Karl Kiser, Principal Lucy Iemmolo, Pastoral Associate Sr. Kathleen Flannery, Associate Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Cleveland Susan Pohly, architects Steve Taylor and Jim Marshaus from Marshaus & Farkas, project managers Art Lindroas and Nancy Lindroas from Bolton Pratt Company, and students were among those present at demolition to prepare the space. 

Phase two of construction includes renovation of the north side of the school building, originally the convent for the parish, and most recently the Religious Education Center. The three-story space will be designed to enhance classroom learning in science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and mathematics, all dedicated to Gesu’s STREAM initiative. 

The new space will consist of two makerspace rooms that will house a variety of equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines and more. (Makerspaces provide hands-on, creative ways to encourage students to design, experiment and build as they engage in science, engineering and related projects.)

The area will also include a flexible instructional space and a renovated chapel. When completed, in spring 2017, the wing will be known as The Breen Family Educational Center for STREAM Learning.

Along with the physical renovation of the school, the academic curriculum has been enhanced to incorporate more project-based learning, critical thinking and collaboration across curriculum areas.   

Gesu School is seeking STEM certification through the state of Ohio. A key component of a STEM-certified school is the formation of partnerships with higher education institutions, businesses and community organizations that can provide support to Gesu’s program. This support may include learning experiences, career information or a source of real world application of STEM topics.

For more information on the Gesu School’s STREAM program, or to become a community partner, contact the school office at 216-932-0620, the parish development office at 216-932-0617, or visit the school website at www.gesu.com.

Mary Kate Farrar

Mary Kate Farrar, a former resident of University Heights, is development director for Gesu school and parish.

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Volume 9, Issue 12, Posted 9:42 AM, 11.22.2016