2007/08
Annual Campaign
Donors
[to date]

SAA Grand Opening

From Left: DP Alderman Mark Walston; State Senator Susan Garrett, DP Alderman Pat Beauvais, DP Alderman Martin Moylan, Dr. Mary Christensen, State Rep. Elaine Nekritz, and US Senator Dick Durbin listen as Board of Trustee Chair Mark Anderson addresses the crowd.

The sun was shining as the SAA community gathered to mark the official public opening of our new building. Board of Trustee chairman, Mark Anderson, US Senator Dick Durbin and Headmaster Mary Christensen addressed the crowd.

Mr. Anderson told the history of SAA and the story of this new building. Mark singled out Dr. Christensen as the driving force behind the building. He recognized the dedication of the faculty and of Abe and Barb Helegua, who were instrumental in the acquisition of the land. Mr. Anderson thanked State Senator Susan Garrett, State Representative Elaine Nekritz, and Des Plaines Aldermen Pat Beauvais, Martin Moylan and Mark Walsten for joining us, showing their support for the Academy’s mission.

SAA founder Dr. Helene Bartz accepts acknowledgement and gratitue from the attendees

Senator Durbin spoke to the importance of education to all children, and specifically commended the founder, Dr. Helene Bartz, parents and community for the success of SAA. He noted that a special dedication is required to see a need and take the risk to fulfill it – not just wait for someone else to do so. The crowd paused a moment to show their appreciation to Dr. Bartz, then Senator Durbin said “We need more schools like this”.

Two SAA students assist the dignitaries on hand with ribbon cutting duties.

Dr. Christensen thanked those gathered for their support through the years. She told her own story as a parent of a gifted child, and called this new building “the culmination of a dream”. She relates to the parents who are simply searching for a place that their child can be challenged, nurtured and appreciated. Science & Arts Academy has been that home for many gifted children, and the new facility ensures that SAA will continue to serve for years to come.

Senator Dick Durbin takes a moment to greet the SAA students after the ribbon cutting.

Following the official cutting of the ribbon, tours were offered to anyone in attendance and SAA parents arranged refreshments. Several members of the faculty and board of trustees were on hand to answer questions.