Those words were used at the May 29, 2008 dedication ceremony to describe the more than 60 students from the district’s building construction curriculum who excavated and renovated McKeesport Area High School’s inner courtyard.
“This truly has been an amazing effort from the students in building construction,” said program teacher Mike Locke. “I want to thank the district, faculty, staff, the alumni association and most of all these students.”
All local alumni registered with the McKeesport High School Alumni & Friends Association, faculty and students were on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony, which was highlighted by performances from the high school chorus, string quartet and woodwinds ensemble.
“This has been eight years in the making,” said Alumni Association President, Dr. Linda L. Croushore (MHS Class of 1964). “It has come a long way from a focus group of parents, students and teachers to this beautiful greenspace you see here today. We are proud of the students and Mr. Locke for their teamwork and dedication to this project.”
Also included in the efforts were MASD Cosmetology Technology students from Monica Kitta’s class, who planted additional flowers in an “M” formation above a bronzed dedication plaque which reads:
“Courtyard Dedication – May 29, 2008. The inner courtyard renovation was a project of the McKeesport High School Alumni & Friends Association and the McKeesport Area School District. It would not have been possible without the generous contributions of Tiger Alumni and the hard work of Michael Locke and his Building Construction Technology Students.”
For their efforts, Croushore awarded each student with an honorary membership to the Alumni Association for their hardwork and dedication to the project – what MASD Superintendent Dr. Shirley Golofski referred to as “an excellent example of social responsibility.”
The courtyard, now contains expert landscaping with meandering concrete pathways, a dry creek bed, a stately multi-tiered fountain, outdoor stage complete with trellis and a modest gazebo.
Dr. Timothy Gabauer, MASD principal, said he was excited and proud to see the work completed.
“I knew what the vision was and it truly is great to see this vision come to fruition,” Gabauer said. “We thank Mr. Locke for his time, his effort and most of all his dedication to his students for a job well done.”
The Alumni Association sold 282 engraved bricks, 100 of which were purchased by Al Hillegass MHS (Class of 1944). These bricks can be found affixed in a diamond pattern in front of the outdoor stage. Additional bricks can be purchased through the association. Those bricks will be installed into the courtyard and proceeds will help with the expenses of such things as benches and the fountain installation.
Bricks, priced at $100 each, still are available from the alumni association. Click here for order form.
Dr. Linda L. Croushore, MAHS Class of 1964, officially opened the courtyard.
The crown jewel of the inner courtyard is comprised of 282 engraved bricks purchased by MASD alumni.
Spectators explored the courtyard before the ceremonies began.
McKeesport High School Hall of Fame member Adam Lynch talks with a member of the audience.
The fountain adds tranquility to the newly renovated inner courtyard.
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