Saint Wendel School Embarks On Preschool Addition

Saint Wendel School broke ground on its latest building project, the creation of an early childhood learning center, with a ceremony on March 16. A large crowd of students, staff, and community members gathered at the construction site in Saint Wendel to celebrate the occasion.

Principal Hallie Scheu greeted the crowd and gave special thanks to honored guests, including Saint Wendel pastor Father Ed Schnur, former Saint Wendel pastor Father David Nunning,  Superintendent of schools Dr. Daryl Hagan, Assistant Superintendents Michelle Prior and Sally Sternberg, Mater Dei High School President Dr. Timothy A. Dickel, project architects Mike and Charlene Buente, and President of Arc Construction Danny Bateman.

Special recognition was given to alumni from the very first preschool and pre-k classes held at Saint Wendel.  

Scheu explained the history of the school’s preschool and pre-k program as she opened the ceremony.  “Ten years ago, Saint Wendel began educating students in preschool and pre-k,” Scheu said. “Now, we break ground on a project that was first envisioned in 1992.”

The center will be housed on the lower level of Wendel Hall and will include four new classrooms, an activity room for indoor play, expanded restrooms, staff offices and workroom, a covered outdoor play area, and exterior development including sidewalks and parking.

A new covered entrance at the lower level will provide access to the newly remodeled Wassmer Room, providing an accessible meeting space for use by parish organizations.

Father Ed Schnur led the crowd in prayer before the ceremonial groundbreaking. “Ask God that the work we begin contributes to the building of his kingdom,” Father Schnur prayed. “We dedicate these classrooms to you and your glory.  We pray that this new preschool and pre-k will bless and influence hundreds and hundreds of young children who will be the leaders of the future.”