Spencer Sacred Heart School updates library thanks to grant

By RENEE WEBB
Content and Design Coordinator

Students at Sacred Heart School in Spencer can now enjoy an enhanced learning experience in the school library thanks to recent updates.

Tyler Horkey, principal of Sacred Heart, pointed out that the school received a $10,000 grant from the Palo Alto Gaming Development Corporation to undertake the project so no funds from the parish or school budgets were utilized. These grants are funded by proceeds from the Wild Rose Casino and Resort in Emmetsburg.

“The renovations included the purchase of new, soft and flexible seating for students, along with STEM tables to facilitate various projects and additional seating in the library,” noted the principal.  “Our goal was to create a space that students could take pride in and that would serve multiple educational purposes.”

Sacred Heart was able to purchase 800 new books with the grant funds.
 
“We carefully selected books that cater to our students' diverse needs and interests, ranging from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade,” said Horkey. “A significant portion of our new collection focuses on non-fiction to support classroom learning, while we also included fictional books to ignite a passion for reading among students.”

He pointed out that at the beginning of the year the school had received a generous donation that allowed Sacred Heart to enhance the school environment in various ways. At that time, a minimal portion of the funds was allocated for the library updates.Necessity for the project, the principal explained, arose from outdated furniture in the library and the poor condition of many existing books. He felt the library environment had not adequately supported student needs.

“The new library environment offers several benefits for our students,” said Horkey. “The fresh, inviting space encourages a positive learning atmosphere, fostering excitement and pride among students. The ability to check out books that align with their interests or school projects enhances their learning experience.”

 Most of the renovations have been completed. He pointed out that they do plan to do some additional work this summer.

“This includes removing some walls to create more space for bookshelves and student activities. We also anticipate updating the paint and possibly adding more furniture to further enhance our library space,” said Horkey.

Overall, the principal said he is extremely satisfied with the outcome of the project.

“I take great pride in being part of Sacred Heart Catholic School, which continuously seeks opportunities to improve and support student development,” said Horkey. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in our mission to cultivate an environment where students, staff and parents can take pride in our school community and share a love for Sacred Heart.”