With a final push by generous donors, Eastern Mennonite School reached its move-in goal for funding the renovation of the former MennoMedia building to provide a permanent home for its elementary program today.

“It’s been a full court press the past three weeks as we sought the final dollars in this phase of the Let the Children Come campaign,” said Paul Leaman, head of school. “Our supporters gave generously, encouraging others with matching and incentive gifts that brought the community together. Our hearts are full and smiles wide today.”

Although the permitting process for the building took longer than anticipated, director of business affairs Mike Stoltzfus is pleased with the progress in recent weeks. “The contractors and subs are working together to keep things on track, and we are slated to gain our occupancy permit in late fall 2019,” he says.

As construction continues, a parent group is turning its sights toward raising funds for a covered bridge called for in the campaign plan. The bridge will connect the campus’s upper and lower buildings and provide a safe drop-off and pick-up spot for elementary students. It will also provide a covered outdoor learning and play space for the children.

The $60,000 “Build a Bridge” initiative, which launches in early April, invites families, individuals, and businesses to purchase brick pavers with names or comments inscribed in honor of students or teachers.