27J Schools cuts ribbon on new STEM and CTE Center at RRHS-August 2023

 Students at Riverdale Ridge High School now have access to a state-of-the-art STEM and Career and Technical Education Center on campus. 27J Schools held a ribbon-cutting  ceremony on Aug. 16 to celebrate the completion and opening of the 47,910 square foot building. The center was funded through the passage of the $515 million bond program approved by voters in 2021, which included money to build the centers at each of the district’s three high schools. 

 “A week ago today, I entered the [STEM and CTE Center] for the first time and found myself with the same-wide eyed expression I’m sure many of you can relate to,” Riverdale Ridge junior Kyli Kisiel said to a crowd of parents and students as well as district and community leaders. “Each room felt like a step into a real-life career setting from the fully-equipped kitchen to the patient care room that each looks and feels professional.” Kisiel is beginning her third year in the school’s biomedical pathway and aspires to become a pediatrician.

  The center contains hands-on learning spaces for culinary, biomedicine, sports medicine and personal training, small engine repair, computer science and information technology, graphic design, audio/visual production, Certified Nursing Assistant, phlebotomy, EKG and welding. 

  Ribbon cuttings for the new STEM and CTE Centers at Brighton and Prairie View High Schools will be held on Sept. 11 at 9:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. respectively.