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Berkshire School Holds Grand Opening for New Pre-Kindergarten-12 Campus in Burton, Ohio

Name
Heather Stacy
City
Columbus
Release Date

 

USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Direct Loans Provides $28 Million Loan to Offset Initial Cost of Construction

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 12, 2022 – After  nearly ten years of planning and construction, Geauga County's Berkshire Schools is set to open the doors of a state-of-the-art building to nearly 1,400 Pre-K-12 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

"This innovative project heralds a first-ever collaboration between USDA and the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission,” said Jonathan McCracken, USDA Rural Development Ohio State Director. “By utilizing the Community Facilities Direct Loan, projects like this serve as a model for investing in educational opportunities for rural communities now and into the future.”

The new building features separate wings for different age groups, including pre-K and maker spaces to inspire creative learning, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an amazing gymnasium, and career tech spaces for diesel mechanics and healthcare education

Berkshire School is co-located with Kent State University's Geauga and Regional Academic Center, allowing the Berkshire School District to make use of shared operational services and offer "cradle-to-career" educational opportunities.

USDA Rural Developments initial investment covers $28 million of the $51 million total cost of construction The new property is leased from Kent State University for $1 per year for 50 years, with at least two lease renewal options available thereafter.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/oh.

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