NCPS Celebrates Grand Opening Of The Dome At New Canaan High

Information via New Canaan Public Schools

NEW CANAAN, CT — New Canaan Public Schools has announced the grand opening of The Dome, a highly anticipated immersive learning theater at New Canaan High School.

According to a news release provided by the school district, the official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on April 30 in a private event held with members of the Board of Education, The Dome Committee, Ad Council, PTC/PFA and town officials, including current First Selectman Dionna

Carlson and former First Selectman Kevin Moynihan.

The Dome, a cutting-edge immersive and interactive learning theater, now stands in the place of NCHS' original 1971 planetarium. The space has undergone a remarkable transformation, boasting a 30-ft, ceiling-mounted circular theater screen, dual 4K Sony projector system, LED cove lighting, and cinema-style seating, according to the school district.

The Dome also features a state-of-the-art programming system, Digistar 7, which provides a breadth of educational experiences across various disciplines, including biology, astrology, mathematics, physics, history, art, and more. Together, these features blend visuals and sound to create a breathtaking 180-degree image, revolutionizing traditional education into a fully immersive visual, audio, and sensory experience, NCPS officials said.

"We are deeply appreciative of everyone who has been a part of this inspiring project," Superintendent Bryan Luizzi said in a news release. "It has been an extraordinary journey, and we are grateful for the unwavering support and dedication of those who have helped turn this vision into a reality."

According to the district, the vision to transform the former planetarium into a new, modern learning center was first conceived in 2016, but plans were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through a collaborative private-public fundraising initiative between the town and community members, the district revived the project in 2022. In recognition of the support and contributions from community members, the entrance to The Dome is adorned with a wall of dedication stars, each symbolizing the generous donations of New Canaan community members who played a pivotal role in turning the vision of the space into reality, NCPS officials said.

Led by community member and NCPS alumni Sara Schubert, The Dome's Committee was instrumental in driving the project forward, demonstrating the power of community in realizing ambitious educational visions, according to the district.

"The Dome is a powerful example of what's possible when we come together as a community on behalf of our children," Luizzi said. "In a world that's driving us to look down at our small screens, isolated and alone, The Dome brings us together to share in a sense of wonder and awe. Instead of looking down and thinking small, The Dome provides a vast canvas with infinite possibilities for all of us to explore the world together in previously unimaginable ways."

The Dome is currently open for classroom use for grades K-12, with public use expected in the fall.