UCS News:
Please see the release below and call or e-mail me at mwalker@ucschools.com with any questions.

Ursuline Campus Schools begins campus road work

LOUISVILLE, KY (June 2007) - The first phase of a road project at Ursuline Campus Schools on Lexington Rd. began in early June and is expected to be completed by August 10. The project, part of the Ursuline United: Expanding hearts, minds and horizons $9.55 million capital campaign, will link the east and west ends of campus and will promote safety for the entire community by reducing traffic congestion. The new road will extend from the parking lot behind Sacred Heart Academy to Ursula Drive, a campus road that leads to Sacred Heart Model School.

This is will be the third project to be completed since the capital campaign began, with more projects to come.

To date, nearly $7 million has been raised toward the $9.55 million capital campaign goal. In addition to the road construction, the capital campaign projects include:

* Transforming 80-year-old Ursula Auditorium into a state-of-the art performing arts center that will benefit all UCS students as well as the surrounding community. The historic façade of the current building will be preserved; however, the interior will be modernized to include 550 comfortable seats, orchestra pit, scene/prop shop and costume storage, and well-positioned seating for patrons in wheelchairs. A spacious atrium will be added to the building to house intimate receptions and other small gatherings. The estimated cost of the performing arts center is $4.5 million.

* The four Sacred Heart Academy science labs will be upgraded to keep pace with ever-changing scientific and technological advancements, allowing SHA students to expand their opportunities for science careers in today’s world. The renovated labs will include computer and internet wiring, integration of PDAs, SMART boards and other advanced learning tools, new laboratory workstations, updated electrical, gas and plumbing components, and upgraded safety equipment. The estimated cost to renovate the four labs is $1 million ($250,000 each). One lab has been updated, thanks to the generous gift of an anonymous donor.

* A redesigned portico to Sacred Heart Academy, in conjunction with an improved road system, will address safety issues and provide a welcoming entrance to students and visitors. The project will include a formal front entrance, circular drive, wider roadway, additional parking and new windows. The estimated cost of the redesigned front entrance is $1 million. Thanks to the gift of a generous donor, the windows were replaced during the summer of 2006.

* A Sacred Heart Academy gym connector between the school and the gymnasium will improve safety, as well as conserve heat and air conditioning. The connector will also include a Hall of Fame, weight training facility and athletic offices. The estimated projected cost is $500,000.

* A new elementary gymnasium will allow Sacred Heart Model School, Ursuline Montessori School and Ursuline Child Development Center to continue to meet the mission of educating the whole person. The Model School will also be able to expand its comprehensive athletic program for all elementary age children. Additionally, the new gym will continue to serve the community as a first-class rental facility. The estimated projected cost is $2.4 million.

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Ursuline Campus Schools (UCS), sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville, is a community of five Catholic schools located on the beautiful 48-acre Ursuline Campus at 3105 Lexington Road in Louisville, Kentucky. The priorities of UCS are the development of the Ursuline core values of community, leadership, reverence, and service and strong academic programs. UCS offers a unique opportunity to experience the entire educational process, from early childhood through high school and is made up of the following member schools: Sacred Heart Academy (grades 9-12), Sacred Heart Model School (grades K-8), Ursuline Montessori School (ages 2-6), Ursuline Child Development Center (ages 1-5), and the Ursuline School for the Performing Arts (all ages). The total student population is nearly 2,000.