SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Central Catholic High School recently completed nearly $200,000 worth of renovations for infrastructure repairs and technology upgrades thanks to its 2012 Capital Campaign.
School leaders say Saratoga Central Catholic was in need of safety and infrastructure upgrades the budget couldn’t account for.
“The Capital Campaign started when we realized we needed some roof work and we had some chimney issues,” said L. Stephen Lombard, principal. “Then we found out from the insurance company that our front steps were borderline unsafe, our sidewalks were cracked and we’re responsible for that.”
Walk or drive past the school, located at 247 Broadway, and you might notice some of the initial work completed during the first phase of the project; including the repair of the school’s limestone façade and front steps. Four Victorian streetlights were also installed along the new sidewalks, which underwent concrete foundation repair. Two decaying trees were removed from the front lawn and the school is working with the City of Saratoga Springs to plant more.
Perhaps the most noticeable change for parents and visitors to the school is the new security system. A video intercom entry system is now at the main entrance, giving school officials control over who enters. Cameras were installed throughout the building, in hallways and even stairwells, adding an extra layer of security.
“Not that there was ever really any issues, but it puts people at peace,” said Lombard. “Really what it’s done is it has caught people being good as opposed to getting in trouble. We also have two cameras on the exterior of the building to keep an eye on the parking lot.”
Saratoga Central Catholic also installed a wireless Internet connection, allowing students access to the Internet on their own devices, supporting 21st Century learning. The upgrade compliments new laptops sixth grade students received through a $7,500 Higher Powered Learning Grant.
The Capital Campaign accumulated just over $150,000 but add in other donations, such as in-kind contributions, the total comes closer to $200,000. Principal Lombard says the number of projects that were completed with the Capital Campaign is as remarkable as the total amount of funds raised.
Through all of the renovations and upgrades, one thing is certain – school leaders say none of it would have been possible without the help of the community. Whether through monetary donations, in-kind service work, or simply volunteering time and effort, community members stepped up to the plate.
“Many people contributed to our Capital Campaign and of course, you can’t name everybody,” said Sandy Tarkleson, director of development. “But they know who they are. It really helps make this school the family that it is.”
An in-building communication system and new lockers are still on the wish list for Saratoga Central Catholic. Tarkleson says the school will undergo more upgrades in the future to accommodate the growth. Enrollment at Saratoga Central Catholic is up to 237 students, a nearly 11 percent increase from last year.
“The projects are a lot and they will continue, but we want to thank everybody for what they’ve done for the school,” said Tarkleson. “It means a lot.”
Saratoga Central Catholic is also hosting a fundraising event for its performing arts program. The event, titled “Motown Revival II,” is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 2 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Canfield Casino. Party goers can expect food, desserts, live music, a silent auction and a full cash bar. Tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for ages 13-18. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by Monday, Oct. 27. Call Sandy Tarkleson at 587-7070 for more information.
The school will also host its annual gala on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015 at Saratoga National. Proceeds will benefit the school.
