Dubuque Catholic School Plans $14 Million Renovation

According to a press release, Holy Family Catholic Schools and St. Columbkille Catholic Church have unveiled an ambitious plan for a $14 million renovation of St. Columbkille Elementary School. This marks the final phase of Holy Family's strategic plan for vast facility improvements. Following months of planning and a capital campaign fundraising drive, parish leaders are targeting the beginning of renovations at the end of the current school year.

Financial backing for the project has been secured, with more than $6.2 million in private donation pledges and a substantial $5 million commitment from Holy Family itself. This impressive financial support sets the stage for a complete overhaul.

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One of the main aspects of this renovation involves expanding the school's capacity. St. Columbkille Elementary School will now be able to serve three sections across each grade level, spanning from kindergarten to 5th grade. The expansion will make St. Columbkille the largest elementary school within the Holy Family network.

Another key element of the project is the consolidation of facilities. The new layout will centralize all school activities under one roof, eliminating the need for separate buildings for functions like lunch and early childhood programming. The renovation will bring about 19,000 square feet of new space to the school and renovate about 33,000 square feet of existing space, creating school building of approximately 52,000 square feet in total size.

To ensure the safety and efficiency of the construction process, students will be temporarily relocated during the 2024-2025 construction period. Preschool through grade one students will find temporary accommodations at St. Joseph the Worker Early Childhood Center. Students in grades two through five will move into the presently vacant south wing of Resurrection Elementary.

The church and school are also inviting the community at large to attend informational meetings in the St. Columbkille gymnasium. Meetings are currently scheduled for Sunday, October 22nd, at 11:30am, Monday, October 23rd, at 6:30pm, and Thursday, October 26th, at 1pm. These gatherings are designed to provide further insights into the project, answer any questions, and encourage the community to get involved during the process.

The renovation project's main goal is to enhance the educational experience for students and create a more modern, efficient, and cohesive learning environment at St. Columbkille Elementary School. This endeavor represents a significant step towards improving the school's facilities and educational offerings.