The Leelanau School recently dedicated the newly constructed Charles E. Scripps Jr. Creativity Center on its Glen Arbor campus. The Center will house the school’s ceramics studio, newly donated woodworking shop, and new Laser Engraving program.
The project was inspired and funded through the generosity of Charles E. Scripps Jr. of Montana, a Leelanau School parent and grandparent. Scripps shares Leelanau’s passion for hands-on and entrepreneurial learning experiences. Applied arts allow students to learn elements of creativity and design while acquiring the discipline required to turn ideas into reality.
Adding this new curriculum required the construction of a new building to safely house the technology, equipment, students, and teachers. The Cook family from Chicago and the Gietzen family from Glen Arbor also contributed to the project. Carter Products and the Perez family from Grand Rapids donated the woodshop equipment.
“This collaborative effort to expand our students’ experiences is inspiring,” Rob Hansen, Head of School, said. “Schooling shines when the greater community shows interest and contributes to the growth of our youth. This attention and intention by our Leelanau family to help prepare our students for adulthood and build opportunities is transformational for our learners and our faculty. Creative ideas are flowing!”
Student programming and use of the new facility will be integrated into coursework and activities in the upcoming school year. The Leelanau School is also interested in identifying community partners who want to bring their craftsmanship to the Leelanau campus and students.
