LM Oct 2021

Dr. Hogue and Mr. Gosch explained to the Board that the suite would need to be modified if it were to be used as a suite for sporting events. The existing small windows did not allow full view of the court and the room needed to be painted. Mr. Gosch also told the board that he would like to see the suite enhance our culinary art and business class programs. Gosch wanted the culinary arts students to cater events and have the business students manage the booking and budget for the space. The district reached out to architect Scott Johnson to begin the exploration process. Several concepts were discussed and a significant modification was necessary to provide structural support. The District worked with Mr. Johnson to finalize the plan and then reached out to Kurtz Class to create four ceiling to floor windows that would allow full viewing and bring the sound from the game into the space. The full plan was presented to the Board in May for approval. The window modification would cost approximately $28,000 and would require removing the existing windows and concrete block, installing a new steel header, adding two steel framed window inserts, installing four new windows and adding new concrete blocks around the window frames. Additionally the room would need to be painted. Furniture for the room would be built by the industrial arts class. Mr. Gosch worked with culinary arts teacher, Carolyn Meurs and business teacher Sara Brubaker to create a plan for the space. Culinary arts students created a menu with options for catering. The business class manages the bookings, budget and advertising. The money earned from catering would be used to enhance the culinary arts and business programs. The space was designed to serve and create opportunities for students. Additionally the space offers a one-of-kind catered suite for parents, staff and the community to enjoy Steamer Athletics. The idea and funds to approve the space was unanimously approved by the River Bend Board of Education.

As work was beginning, Dr. Hogue and Mr. Gosch asked the board if naming rights to the space could be sold to an area business. The board liked the idea and Mr. Gosch proceeded with putting a naming rights contract together to present to area businesses. The District would purchase signage, host private events, advertise the business on the video boards in the gym, provide advertising during broadcasted games and allow the business to set up a table in the room. Any funds raised through the naming rights contract would be shared with the culinary arts and business classes. Based on the amount raised through naming rights, funds would also be shared with other student projects and athletics. The Steamer Suite receives a warm welcome from fans, students and stakeholders. The Steamer Suite opened to the public on August 19th at Meet the Players night. Parents, staff and community members all shared in the excitement and possibilities of the space. To get catering events rolling, the culinary arts club hosted school nights by inviting staff from the District’s three schools to a private event. “Watching the game from the suite is a unique experience and gives me a whole new perspective,’’ said one teacher. “The staff attending the catered event shared how much they appreciated the gesture and thought the meal prepared by the students was outstanding.” The Steamer Suite is being booked by parents who want to provide a unique experience for their family as they watch their daughters play volleyball. The District will continue to host staff events. Plans are also being made to host all senior parents and certain student groups will be provided with time in the suite. Area businesses can rent out the space and offer a unique experience for clients. Steamer Nation is proud of the River Bend Schools and this is just another effort to create a one-of-a-kind experience for River Bend families, students and the community.

17 LM October 2021