Contributed by Lori Ruhlman

Image: As they gather in the courtyard, visitors marvel at the gardens. Sitting on a bench are Elizabeth Shoenfelt, current Environmental Club president, and Elli Krause, an active member of the club.

The sounds of the Skaneateles Madrigal Choir filled the courtyard at Skaneateles High School on Tuesday evening as a crowd gathered to celebrate three years of work that turned the gravel hole between buildings into a place of beauty.

Principal Georgette Hoskins said the courtyard represents vision, persistence and collaboration. She said it is a tribute to the students who had the vision, used persistence and collaborated with staff and community members to make their dream come true. “It is also a beautiful tribute to those who were once a part of our school community, from students whose lives ended prematurely to staff who dedicated themselves to students,” she said.

Superintendent Phil D’Angelo Jr. said the amazing effort that went into making the courtyard a reality is the type of thing that makes him very proud to be a part of the Skaneateles community.

Patience Brewster attributed much of the success of the student-led project to Rick Garrett, teacher and Environmental Club adviser. She called him a “magical person” whose quiet guidance made others join in and work hard. (more…)

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