The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School is hoping to raise $5.2 million for the construction of a multi-purpose building focused on the arts.
Since the school’s founding in 1996, it has prioritized bringing a project-based education to their students, said Pete Steedman, the school’s director. A large part of that mission is promoting the arts.
However, the school doesn’t have a dedicated space for performances. Heather Capece, a theatre teacher who directs the school plays, said throughout her 25 years working for the school, she’s never had a classroom.
“I’m on a rolling cart,” Ms. Capece said. “I’ve done shows in hallways.”
Mr. Steedman said there were 70 students involved with the school’s April performance of Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. He said there has been an increase in students wanting to be involved with the arts.
“We’re sort of bursting at the seams,” Mr. Steedman said.
Students currently rehearse at the West Tisbury Library and the school rents the Grange Hall for performances. However, with budget changes and student interest in the arts increasing, Ms. Capece said the school needs its own space.
The multi-purpose room will also be used as a gathering place for assemblies and a venue for wellness programs. Mr. Steedman said it could also be used for community events.
The school has raised $1 million and Mr. Steedman said they have received additional verbal commitments.
Bruce MacNelly has been tapped as the architect for the project.
The building will be named after Bob Moore, the first Head of School.
“Bob’s leadership and dedication to the Charter School for over 20 years played a pivotal role in its growth and success,” Mr. Steedman said.
Mr. Steedman said the school hopes to start construction next summer.
“We’ve been talking about this for a long time and we’re ready to make it happen,” Mr. Steedman said.
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