Construction of The Lincoln Academy is Underway

The Lincoln Academy Breaks Ground

By HILLARY GAVAN Beloit Daily News Senior staff writer

Sep 2, 2020

BELOIT — “With all the challenges we are facing today in our world, The Lincoln Academy is a beacon of hope for our children and for our future.”

That’s what founding CEO of The Lincoln Academy and Master of Ceremonies Kristi Cole said as she kicked off the ceremony for the official groundbreaking held Wednesday morning at the site of the new school, 608 Henry Ave., on the Eclipse Campus.

The event included remarks by school leadership and supporters as well as a ceremonial turning of the dirt as actual construction was well underway.

The Lincoln Academy is a proposed 4K to grade 12 independent public charter school scheduled to open in September 2021. Land for the school is being donated by Hendricks Commercial Properties, and Kids First Beloit is planning on a three-story school on the site.

At the Wednesday ceremony, Cole said the school will be the premier K-12 school in the state, providing college and career pathways. She said it will be committed to an equitable environment, rigorous curriculum and strong community partnerships.

Cole commended those who came together including Beloit 200 for working to create something remarkable and State Rep. Amy Loudenbeck, R-Clinton, for knowing the importance of quality educational options.

Cole said the school will be an incredible place of learning, innovation and imagination.

Chairman of ABC Supply, President of Kids First Beloit Formation Board and Hendricks Family Foundation President of the Board Diane Hendricks said the Lincoln Academy will be the place and environment for children to prepare for a productive and fulfilling life through the joy of learning. She said it would expose youth to a vast spectrum of industries and businesses in Beloit along with partnerships with educational institutions.

“We will always be opening doors and opportunities to the unknown future as it unfolds and we will continually embrace change,” Hendricks said.

Hendricks said every child will graduate with a known career path, enlistment in the armed services or a clear plan to continue their education.

“Through education we can make their lives better. Dreams belong to every child and goals can be achieved,” Hendricks said.

Director of the UW Office of Educational Opportunity Aaron Seligman said his office promotes innovation and pushes thinking about what education can be and how schools can meet needs.