District 157-C Celebrates Renovations At Chelsea Intermediate School

FRANKFORT, IL — Frankfort District 157-C held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 31 to celebrate the renovations at Chelsea Intermediate School.

The District said that the renovated school boasts state-of-the-art classrooms with cutting-edge technology.

"These classrooms are designed to provide a dynamic and engaging educational atmosphere for students and reflect the District’s commitment to nurturing 21st-century skills," according to a release from the District.

There are also new spacious extended learning spaces to encourage collaboration among students, the District said. These areas have comfortable seating and can be used for group projects, research or creative activities.

Natural light is a key feature at the school, the District said. The new cafeteria features large windows, and lots of natural light.

Parents and students alike were ecstatic about the changes.

Katie Schubert, a parent of Chelsea students, said in a release, ""My fifth graders were amazed at Chelsea's transformation over the summer. They think the entire building is brighter and more inviting. We already have top-notch teachers and now students also have modern spaces to learn, create, and flourish!"

Hailed as a historic day nearly five years in the making by Superintendent Doug Wernet, the ribbon cutting ceremony marks the end of years of planning and construction, the District said.

“We celebrate today as a milestone in the journey we started several years ago and throughout planning the project, we continuously pushed ourselves to get the highest results in creating the best learning environment for Chelsea. Our District prides itself on a tradition of excellence," Wernet said at the ribbon cutting. "The rich history of the school district is known by many and we are proud that this new school is going to live up to the FSD 157-C standard and it will also help carry on the tradition of excellence into the future."

Board President Edith Lutz thanked previous boards for their vision and financial foresight. The $37 million project did not have to go to referendum.

"Though Chelsea has always been a welcoming environment that supports learning, we are thrilled with the renovations and the addition that has modernized our school, making it an even more beautiful, safe, and stimulating environment for learning," Principal Rachel Newcomb said at the ribbon cutting. "I am beyond excited that we are starting the school year with 21st century classrooms, a new art studio and STEM lab, extended learning spaces, all designed for collaboration and innovation and a library that will continue to foster a love of learning and reading and the use of multimedia."