In 1967 humans had yet to walk on the moon, a computer was the size of a house, and Pluto was still a planet. 1967 was also the year that plans were finalized for building the current Holland Christian High School. Times have changed. Our High School building has not. Much of the same late-60s technology and design built into the High School remains in place today. The resulting challenges are many; however, three crucial areas are in need of immediate attention:
2) the building wasn't built for--and can't handle--the technology of today; and
3) after 40 years, time has simply taken its toll on the building and its fixtures.
In short, substantial renovation is overdue. After many planning sessions that included students, staff, parents, and friends, the School Board presented a plan for such a renewal. We believe it is responsible, yet visionary. It shows fiscal restraint, while not short-changing the parents and students who seek an academically outstanding education that is deeply rooted in Christ.
Our project to renew and expand Holland Christian High School is called the Equipped for Tomorrow Campaign. This project will be accomplished in three phases, and the School Society has voted to proceed with Phase One and Phase Two. Phase Three, which would include construction of a new stadium, a new gymnasium, and locker facilities, would be undertaken if and when it was determined that the facilities were required.
These items will be included in Phase One:
-New science classrooms and laboratories
-New Media Center
-Creation of a new, more visible front door with parking and drop-off
-Relocation and expansion of the art classroom
-Relocation of the High School office and Counseling
-Addressing mechanical issues (heating and ventilation, electrical services)
-Construction of baseball/softball fields and additional practice fields for other sports
-Moving/rebuilding the bus maintenance building
-Adding student parking on the west side of the High School
Phase Two items include:
-Creating a "Main Street" passage running from the front door to the Commons
-New Commons and kitchen
-Replacing student lockers, upgrading corridors
-Upgrade and add restrooms, including handicap accessiblity
-Renovate classrooms (new boards, lighting, windows, flooring, etc.)
-Add storage and set design space for theatre
-Relocation of physical education locker rooms
-Upgrading auditorium infrastructure
-Construction of new tennis court complex
The Equipped for Tomorrow is a $28 million campaign that will cover the costs of construction and furnishings for Phase One and Phase Two and will leave the school debt-free. The construction project will take approximately 30 months for completion, including three summers and two school years.
To reach the $28 million goal requires the support of the entire Holland Christian family, including parents, grandparents, friends, and alumni. You can make your Equipped for Tomorrow gift by clicking on the link below.