Drum up a Better Event Space at LJA

When Laura Jeffrey Academy opened in 2008 as a STEM-focused middle school in St. Paul, Minnesota, we had 50 scholars. Since then, we’ve grown in both our mission and our size. This year we have 130 scholars in grades 5-8.

Our gymnasium is a place where memories are made. During the day, it hosts physical education classes, lunch, and recess. After school, it is a place where clubs and sports meet and practice. In the evenings, families and community members join us for events such as our legendary Chili Cook-off. Scholars use the space to show off their learning during science fairs and exhibitions, then fill it with fun and laughter during festivals and dances. It is where we welcome new families at the beginning of the year and say goodbye to our graduates at the end of the year. While the success of these events must be attributed to the scholars, families, and staff who plan and participate, there is no denying the environment has an impact. And frankly, our environment could use some help.

Imagine how much better our scholars’ concerts will sound with an acoustic shell backing them. Imagine science fairs where room dividers both dampen sound and display scholars’ brilliant ideas. Imagine dynamic seating options that don’t limit attendance at 8th grade graduation. Imagine entering and seeing the event first, not the gymnasium that hosts it.

With the help of our community, we can transform our gymnasium into a versatile event space that shines as brightly as the smiles on our scholars’ faces.

Goals:

$100-$1,000- make cosmetic updates

$1,000-$5,000 - purchase mobile room dividers of varying sizes and colors

$5,000-$10,000- purchase portable bleacher-style seating

$10,000-$15,000- purchase portable acoustic shell