Epiphany Catholic School in Normal is working on the last in a series of renovation projects this summer.
In 2008, the pre-K-through-8th grade school began renovating its campus, starting with the church, improving outdoor scenery, adding another playground, and then moving onto classrooms in the school buildings.
Epiphany’s current $3 million renovation focuses on adding and improving classrooms for the junior high school, said pastor Eric Powell.
One of the additions to the school is a high-tech stream room that will be the future home to advanced science classes and robotics classes.
Additionally, a new teacher’s lounge is being constructed, and the old teacher’s lounge is being converted into a designated space for small-group work.
A new entrance with an office is being built, turning the old office into more classroom space. New security features also are being implemented.
Principal Jennifer Kamradt said she hopes the renovation project will be mostly completed before the school year begins.
“There will be portions that will be completed, student classrooms should be complete, we’ll have class as normal, and there are a couple outside additions that will be continued to be worked on,” Kamradt said.
She emphasized that even if the entire project is not completed, all staff and students should be able to continue their school day without interruptions.
Powell noted the renovations are needed to help meet the expectations from parents and provide the children with a great learning experience.
“The building dates from the 60s,” Powell said. “It was just plain Jane and it was stuffed with students. We got the sense that parents expect more and different things now and to upgrade the facility, make it beautiful and safer as (Kamradt) said.”
Kamradt said students and parents can expect the same quality education with more technology to enhance learning, better security, and more opportunities for growth.
