Right on time at 9 a.m. on Sept. 19 the first of four huge shipping containers loaded with new student tables and chairs arrived on NDCL's campus.
Extreme Makeover Nears Completion
Right on time at 9 a.m. on Sept. 19 the first of four huge shipping containers loaded with new student tables and chairs arrived on NDCL’s campus. Thanks to the quick work of students and staff as well as the installation crew from Martin Public Seating, nearly every classroom was transformed into a contemporary, flexible and more comfortable learning space by the next afternoon.
Prior to the new furniture’s arrival, students and teachers worked hard and had a good time emptying the building of nearly all existing furniture, most of which will be donated to Catholic schools in Cleveland.
“Everyone pitched in to make a memory during the final phase of our ‘Extreme Makeover.’ I just love how we worked together to build a better NDCL—not only for today but for students and teachers for years to come,” he added.
Led by assistant Principal Chris Poulos, with the help of academic coach Andrew Mooney, students and teachers cleared out the building in just over two hours.
“You’ve probably heard of the moving company called Two Men and a Truck. Well, we had Two Men and 730 Teenagers,” Principal Joseph A. Waler joked. “Seriously, they were just outstanding.”
Some of the old desks were well over 70 years old. Originally purchased for Notre Dame Academy on Ansel Road in Cleveland, they were brought to campus when the Academy moved to Munson Township in 1963.
The new tables and chairs offer comfort, flexibility and a contemporary look designed to enhance learning for the school’s 728 students. The tables and chairs were engineered and manufactured by VS America, a leading supplier of premium ergonomic and environmentally friendly furniture for schools and workplaces worldwide.
“As thrilled as I am with the slick and sophisticated new furniture, I am much more impressed by the spirit of our community working together on this project,” explained Mr. Waler. “After all, any school can buy new furniture, but you can’t just go online and order a vibrant school culture.”
“Our engaged, caring, and cooperative community of students and adults is a blessing I never take for granted,” he stressed. “NDCL is in a good place and headed in an even better direction.”
