The Star Democrat - Harris Tours Future Home of Wye River Upper School

News Article

By Liz LaCorte

U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md.-1st, joined representatives from the Wye River Upper School to tour the 1926 National Guard Armory in Centreville -- the future home for WRUS.

The school's capital campaign, "Building Great Minds. Saving Great Spaces," has a goal of $5 million, of which $3.6 million in cash, grants and pledges has already been raised for the purpose of renovating the 1926 National Guard Armory in Centreville. In addition to the generosity of many private donors and foundations, Wye River is a recipient of a Maryland Sustainable Communities grant, a state bond bill allocation and a grant from the Bartus Trew National Historic Trust Preservation fund.

"We appreciate Congressman Harris taking the time to learn more about the WRUS mission and to see the progress of our construction and capital campaign. We are proud of this environmentally sensitive, sustainable project that, once complete, will harbor wonderful stories and new memories for our students just as it once did for hundreds of veterans and residents of Centreville," said Chrissy Aull, Wye River's executive director.

Joining Harris and Aull for the tour were Joanne Baker of Torchio Architects; WRUS student Jesse Kirchner and his mother, Karen Kirchner; John Devlin, chairman of the Wye River Board of Trustees; and Liz LaCorte, director of Development.
Jesse Kirchner, a guitarist and junior at WRUS, was thrilled to show off the space dedicated for the music room. He will be part of the first graduating class to hold its ceremonies in the new space.

"It was a pleasure touring the future home of Wye River Upper School, the National Guard Armory Building in Centreville. As I walked through the building, I heard many stories of students whose lives have been positively impacted by this school. Wye River has helped struggling students to thrive through their rigorous curriculum and positive environment. This school has made a real difference in the lives of kids who were not being served by the current system. Their future is bright because of dedicated teachers who are committed to the mission of serving bright students with learning differences. I wish them all the best as they complete their capital campaign, "Building Great Minds. Saving Great Spaces,'" said Harris.

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