Investing in the Future: STEM and Athletics Projects Progressing This Summer

This summer, Kenowa Hills Public Schools is making exciting progress on key facility upgrades that support both student athletics and academic excellence. From improved athletic spaces that foster team spirit and performance, to enhanced STEM learning environments designed to spark innovation and curiosity, these updates reflect our commitment to developing well-rounded learners. Check out some summer progress below!

Athletics

Significant progress is being made on the new Kenowa Hills softball and baseball complex, with a focus on building high-quality, long-lasting athletic spaces for student-athletes and the community. Each sport will have two new fields: a varsity field with synthetic turf for durability and all-weather play, and a JV field with natural grass, complete with new irrigation systems currently being installed to keep the surface healthy and playable.

Before any construction could begin, crews performed extensive earthwork, grading the land to proper elevations and preparing the sub-base for field installation. The existing soil was run through a sifter on-site to remove debris and produce clean, fine black dirt—this high-quality topsoil will be reused around the fields to support the grass fields. The turf fields will get six inches of stone placed to prep the area for turf. The stones will provide drainage and stability beneath the turf surface.

Infrastructure is taking shape as well. Dugouts, backstops, and the main structure for the concession stand and press box have been placed. Plumbing work is underway, and concrete pours for these areas are scheduled in the coming weeks. An accessible walking path has also been cleared to ensure inclusive access to the new fields.

A retention pond is being constructed near the site. This pond will collect and slow the release of water runoff from the fields, helping to prevent flooding. Sand from the pond area is being repurposed and mixed with the screened topsoil to enhance field conditions. Adjacent to the ballfields, two additional open fields are planned for soccer, lacrosse, and football practice for community use. These upgrades are not just about improving facilities—they’re an investment in safe, sustainable spaces that will serve Kenowa Hills for years to come.

STEM Spaces, Classrooms, and Corridors

While work continues outside on the athletic fields, there are also a number of exciting updates happening inside our Middle School.

• New STEM Room: A former extended learning space is being transformed into a STEM room. Painting is scheduled for next week as the space takes shape.

• Art Room Refresh: The art room is getting updated with new lighting fixtures and a modern heating and cooling unit for a brighter, more comfortable environment.

  

  

• New Health Room: A new health room has been added to better support student wellness needs during the school day. An additional health room designed specifically for life skills instruction is just about finished to support hands-on learning for students with unique needs.

  

  

• New Computer Lab: A fully updated computer lab has been created to enhance digital learning opportunities for students.

  

  
  
  

• STEM Academy Shop: The STEM Academy room—where students build surfboards, skateboards, paddleboards, and snowboards—is nearly complete and ready for hands-on learning.

  

  

  

  
  
  

• Hallway & Corridor Upgrades: Several hallways and common areas have received new floor tiles, carpeting, and ceiling tiles. Additional carpet installations are scheduled for the coming weeks.

  

  

  

These summer projects reflect Kenowa Hills’ ongoing commitment to creating learning environments where students can thrive—whether in the classroom, on the field, or in specialized spaces like the STEM Academy. Each improvement is an investment in the future of our students and the strength of our community. We look forward to welcoming everyone back this fall to experience the progress firsthand!