Alden Road Exceptional Student Center and the Rotary Club of North Jacksonville dedicated a new gazebo on October 17, providing students with a much-needed facility to relax and take a break during the school day.
The Rotary Club of North Jacksonville’s slogan is “service above self,” and the club has partnered with Alden Road Exceptional Student Center for more than six years, starting with the club hosting spaghetti dinners at the school as a fundraising effort.
During one of those dinners, Alden Road teacher Neal Daraskevich expressed an interest in having a gazebo where students could learn about nature, enjoy the outdoors and relax. With the help of many companies and organizations, including Lowes, the Haskell Company, Florida Rock and construction students from the University of North Florida, Mr. Daraskevich’s vision became a reality.
“You are heroes who made a dream of ours come true,” said Principal Linda Leonard. “You gave us the canvas and now we have the opportunity to create the masterpiece.”
Students, faculty and parents from Alden Road, as well as community members, local politicians and Duval County Public Schools’ district employees, were on hand for the dedication of the gazebo, which is just one part of a 16-point plan that the Rotary Club has drafted for the school. Other planned projects include installing a concrete landing to provide easier access to classrooms, making a nature trail, enhancing the school campus with landscaping and beautification projects, and constructing an airnasium (open air gymnasium).
Superintendent Ed Pratt-Dannals and School Board Member Nancy Broner thanked the Rotary Club and the community for their support, and the club’s current president, Dick Chelius, pledged to continue its partnership with the school. Additionally, representatives from Lowes presented the school with a gift card to help with future projects.
“Alden Road Exceptional Student Center thanks and is deeply grateful for the many pillars in our community who have dedicated their time, supplies and love,” said Principal Leonard. “You make a difference, and that difference will help our students reach their highest potential.
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