Just in time for its open house on Thursday, September 14th, the courtyard beautification project of Luis Muñoz Marin Dual Language Academy is complete.
With the efforts of community partners, and the visions of Principal Samuel Roman and Reading Recovery Specialist teacher Lisa Graboski, the courtyard is now ready to receive families. It offers an inviting and tranquil atmosphere.
“I knew when I came here in 2019, that this space needed to become the heart of the school,” said Roman.
The principal saw the potential of the courtyard even though it was badly overgrown with dense shrubbery and its bricks covered in moss. He recognized that the courtyard should serve as the centerpiece of the school building and became motivated to change the appearance of the area.
“We were not utilizing the space at all. It was dirty, and there was nothing in the space to make it humane,” said Roman.
He recognized he needed help. That help soon materialized with the support of District partners Heart of America and Colorful Communities PPG. The effect was almost immediate.
After the application of a few coats of fresh paint, restoration of worn benches, and the placement of colorful, heavy duty picnic tables on the grounds, the school community saw the beginning stages of revitalization.
Along with restoring the courtyard, Mr. Roman also wanted to make sure that the area would be inviting and useful for all students.
“One of my goals is to make this space accessible to students with disabilities,” he states, pointing out the areas intended for ramp installation, “especially students in wheelchairs.”
Sharing in the vision, Ms. Graboski continued the efforts and jumped into action this year.
While on a trip to Home Depot for needed supplies, she met Nicole Menlendez, hiring manager of the Steelyard Commons location, and was introduced to a grant opportunity that would further assist in the beautification development.
“It took about two months to clean out the flower beds,” says Ms. Graboski, “and when I went to Home Depot and met Nicole, she told me about the available Home Depot Foundation grant. I told Mr. Roman about it. We applied and here we are,” she says with enthusiasm.
Team Depot and the staff of Luis Muñoz Marin Dual Language Academy
The Home Depot Foundation offers the ‘Team Depot Grant’, which focuses on connecting local associates and the community. Volunteers that participated in this effort came from the Steelyards Commons and Berea locations.
With the final touches provided by District partners The Cleanout Kings, the removal of debris, power washing brick, planting flowers and placing mulch, the restoration of the courtyard is now complete.
The courtyard will now serve as a safe space for all students and speaks to a pleasant learning environment. With plans to display permanent student artwork and the placement of a memorial tree, this community-wide effort will be appreciated and enjoyed by all its visitors.
