By Shelby Siegfried
for the Register
As the school bell rings in a new academic year, St. Cecilia Middle and High School in Hastings is abuzz with the sounds of construction. Amidst the ongoing renovation project, classes are in session, and Bluehawk school spirit is soaring.
Father Cyrus Rowan, principal of the schools and assistant chief administrative officer of Hastings Catholic Schools, detailed the significant progress achieved over the past year.
“Construction began with the closing of Kansas Street for a new addition to the front of the school. Subsequent to interior demolition of the high school’s south wing, the year saw concrete poured for the new addition, steel beams erected for the building’s framework, and new rooms insulated and framed,” he explained. Also noteworthy is the two-story chapel structure that’s now in place.
Over the summer, attention shifted to the middle school, where substantial upgrades were installed. Both the middle school and the south wing of the high school now boast new HVAC systems, fresh flooring and carpet, updated windows, and a coat of paint. The hallways and classrooms also received new ceiling tiles, while brand-new desks, chairs, and tables have enhanced the learning environment. In addition, the floors of the two gyms were refinished, with the older gym receiving a fresh coat of paint.
The upgrades are long overdue, as portions of the school haven’t been refurbished since the 1960s. This renovation is a part of the “Our Faith, Our Future, Our Time” campaign, aiming not only for a complete remodel of St. Cecilia High School with a new addition, but also to support teacher compensation. Portions of the funds will be channeled to support St. Michael Elementary School, St. Michael Parish, and St. Cecilia Parish. The project’s success has been underscored by the achievement of raising 75% of the target $13 million. Contributions can be made at the campaign’s official website.
The support from the community throughout the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable, Father Rowan said.
“Parents, students, alumni, school families, and other benefactors have consistently shown their dedication, contributing prayers, campaign gifts, and their time by helping move furniture, set up classrooms, and even relocate the library.”
Currently, for the 2023-2024 academic year, classes at St. Cecilia are being held in the middle school and the high school’s south wing. And while enrollment at the school is on the rise, this year students and faculty are less crowded.
“Last year, grades 6-12 had to adapt, using both the middle school section and the north wing of the high school. Some classes were even conducted in a building across the street,” Father Rowan added. Completion of the new addition and east side of the building is slated for this winter.
For St. Cecilia, the future is not just about a new building, but a renewed commitment to education, community, and faith.
Father Rowan captures the sentiment perfectly: “Creating this refreshing environment is about more than aesthetics. It’s about uplifting our students, faculty, and community. With bright classrooms and a renewed spirit, we aim to elevate our academic offerings and create a brighter future for all.”
Courtesy photos
