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.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s 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,\u201d said Paul Leaman, head of school. \u201cOur supporters gave generously, encouraging others with matching and incentive gifts that brought the community together. Our hearts are full and smiles wide today.\u201d<\/p>\n
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. \u201cThe contractors and subs are working together to keep things on track, and we are slated to gain our occupancy permit in late fall 2019,\u201d he says. <\/p>\n
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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n