By Ignacio Chazarreta
The foundations of Christopher Columbus High School started in one place: the A Building. No matter which graduate returns, from any year you can imagine, they will all share memories in the A Building. From holding some of the longest-standing members of the faculty, like Mr. O'Brien, to the grandiose entrance and even the school seal, it has truly become iconic. Looking back into Columbus history, we learn that the A Building was the foundation of this school, and from the image below, we can see it still maintains its original structure—but not for long.
The New
On its inauguration on April 29, 2024, the plans for the entrance and the new A Building set the stage for something great. Thanks to Maximo Alvarez and the Alvarez family, this 3D model turned an idea into a future reality. The remodel of the front entrance features a new modern, aesthetic look, with the school's name branded at first sight. It also draws in new opportunities for students and teachers alike. In the end, from these two projects, we can see five big changes coming to the school
1.) Desmond Family Center for Success
With the new installation, the Desmond Center will not only be larger but also closer to the heart of campus. The center will be directly next to the entrance of the school, with new and improved study spaces designated for Desmond Center students. This will include an outdoor space, two breakout rooms and even more study spaces. Funded by Marcus Lemonis (class of 1991), this project is destined to succeed.
2.) Pat Call and Irene Culmo Center for College and Career
Guidance
With college applications getting tougher each year, a new career guidance center to help students apply and find their path is crucial. In collaboration with the Desmond Family Success Center, it will also have various breakout rooms specifically designed for conferences, testing, and meetings with advisors. This center will focus on spaces for college applications and meetings with college representatives.
3.) Main office
With the student population increasing and more activities happening at school, a new office is essential for some of the pillars of the school. The first floor of the A Building will include various new and renovated offices for Mr. Pugh, Mr. McKeon, and various deans.
4.) Entrance
As many students already know, the main school entrance is being fully renovated with a grander, more beautiful entrance for students and teachers alike.
5.) Extras
With so many new projects being done at the same time, we can see the highlights in new meeting rooms, study spaces, outdoor areas, and even an increase in new tech for all students. It is important to note that this is just the beginning, as President Kruczek has set his eyes on the future:
“These two projects are the first step in the Christopher Columbus High School Master Plan.”
Construction Progress
So far, construction is going well. With many hallways blocked off and loud noises echoing throughout the school, the progress is noticeable to many students. With the predicted completion date set for 2026, it seems that soon we will not only see but use this magnificent new facility. President Kruczek has confirmed that the project will be completed by 2026, but sadly, a large portion of current students will miss its inauguration. As for juniors, it is still unclear if they will have a chance to see or even use this building.
However, what we do know for sure is what our school principal Mr. Pugh has said:
“It is hard to predict right now its completion. I am hopeful that our Juniors will have an opportunity, but it is still too early to tell,” said Mr. Pugh.
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