Community rallies to help renovate Sussex Academy animal shelters
When the animal shelters at Sussex Academy Elementary needed renovations, the community stepped up to provide a safe and comfortable space for the campus goats, sheep and chickens, a kindness that will, in turn, revitalize a formerly inactive student animal care program.
The school put out a call for help before the cold winter months set in that resulted in a much-needed renovation of the goat and sheep shed, and new siding for the chicken coop.
“The response was heartwarming,” said Elementary Dean Connie Hendricks. “What started as a maintenance request ended up becoming a master class in local partnership and generosity.”
Parent Joe Wobeter volunteered to help with the project and quickly enlisted his Schell Brothers colleague, Dan Matta. Matta assessed the needs of the animal enclosures and organized a team to work on the renovation during school breaks.
In addition to the donation of professional expertise, all materials and labor were donated, ensuring that school resources could remain focused on the students, and the animals are now enjoying a space that is not only safer but more comfortable.
Ryan Reed, owner of Atlantic Millwork, collaborated with the school to donate flooring materials for the shed, and the shed and chicken coop both received high-quality new siding courtesy of Schell Brothers. Julio Burgess, a member of the school’s maintenance team, built a beautiful new gate and installed new windows in the coop to improve ventilation and light.
Because the structures are now safe and sturdy, Sussex Academy’s student animal care program will officially return this spring, as students can return to their chores in a safe environment.
