The Leelanau School has recently received significant philanthropic gifts to renovate and create new learning spaces.

Last week the nonprofit boarding and day high school announced plans for a new creative space on its Glen Arbor campus, expanding hands-on and experiential learning opportunities for students.

The facility will house the school’s pottery workshop and kilns, woodworking, metals, welding tools, and a state-of-the-art laser cutter/engraver. The construction project and laser cutter are funded by a philanthropic gift from Charles E. Scripps, Jr.

Shares Head of School Rob Hansen, “we teach students how to learn at Leelanau, and there is no better way to think creatively than to do creatively. This new collaborative space will allow academic, arts, and residential faculty to expand curriculum and entrepreneurial opportunities for students.”

Architectural planning and excavation have begun, with completion targeted for Fall 2022.

This project follows eighteen months of campus renovation to community spaces provided through charitable donations from Doug and Dianne Cook of Chicago and Glen Arbor.

“Exciting improvements to the Karman Activity Center, dining room, the Cook Learning Commons, and this new creative arts space are transforming our campus,” says Hansen. “The Leelanau School is approaching its second century with the same educational philosophy but a fresh look and feel. This growth through philanthropic support energizes our mission and community. We are truly grateful.”