The first phase of renovation is winding down at the former St. Vincent’s Orphanage as the Health Sciences Charter School (HSCS) students fill the hallways. After undergoing $5 million overhaul, the long-neglected building has welcomed its new tenants to start the 2011-2012 school year.
“We are excited to welcome our students to this architecturally significant building that has been transformed into a state-of-the-art learning environment,” said Dr. Hank Stopinski, the principal of HSCS. “Our school is proud to have brought the latest technology, safety and security systems, and new electrical, plumbing/HVAC installations, carpeting and furniture into this extraordinary space,” he said. “Brand new classrooms, science labs, a cafeteria and physical education and fitness areas bring a new purpose and energy to this storied building.”
The school’s new location provides easy access for field trips, mentoring, real-work internships and service learning placements at partner facilities. Students now have more transportation options because of the school’s close proximity to public transportation which allows for more after-school activities.
“The primary purpose of the Health Sciences Charter School is to provide high school students with an academically challenging learning environment that will enable them to excel in higher education and to achieve quality, sustainable health care careers,” Dr. Stopinski said. “Our students are the primary reason that our Board of Trustees decided to take advantage of the opportunity to relocate to this building,” he said. “We are certain that it will enhance the ability of our students and faculty to pursue academic excellence every day.”
Students and teachers will be contributing to their new neighborhood through community service on September 9th in recognition of the tenth anniversary of the September 11th tragedy. The school will be participating in beautification projects in the surrounding area.