On a day marked by joy, gratitude, and renewed vision, V. Lindsay Seventh-day Adventist School celebrated the ribbon cutting of its newly renovated library and STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) lab, two spaces designed to transform the student learning experience and support the school’s continued growth.
What was once underutilized space has been reimagined into vibrant, student-centered environments that promote curiosity, creativity, and academic excellence. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together students, families, staff, and community members to witness not just the opening of new rooms, but the beginning of a new chapter in the school’s journey.
As the ribbon was cut, students eagerly stepped into the spaces, many wearing lab coats, ready to explore, question, and engage. Their excitement was immediate and unmistakable. The STREAM lab, designed to support hands-on, inquiry-based learning, reflects a commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving world while grounding their education in faith-based principles.
Central States Conference President Elder Cryston Josiah was among those in attendance, and his words captured what many felt in the room:
“In all my years of visiting schools, and even as a parent with children who attended here, I have never seen a lab like this. The integration of STREAM, especially the inclusion of reading and the arts alongside STEM, is truly exceptional. From the microscope stations to the maker space and 3D printing, this is a powerful example of what intentional, forward-thinking education can look like.”
His remarks affirmed what many experienced firsthand. This was not just a renovation, but a reimagining of what learning can look like.
The STREAM lab gives students access to tools and resources that support innovation and discovery: 3D printers, microscopes, experimental tables, building and maker stations, manipulatives, and virtual reality glasses. From exploring the human body in virtual reality to designing and building with engineering tools, students are already discovering new ways to think, create, and problem-solve.
On the library side, the newly redesigned space offers a warm, welcoming environment that encourages literacy, reflection, and discovery. With flexible seating, a reading nook tree, and dedicated areas for individual and collaborative reading, the library invites students to grow both academically and spiritually. For a school that had books on site for years without a fully functioning library space, this transformation carries particular meaning.
Literacy remains a cornerstone of V. Lindsay’s mission. School leaders understand that reading is foundational to student success, and they are committed to helping students grow in literacy
across every subject, not only in academic achievement, but in self-confidence and Christlike character as well.
This milestone is also part of a larger vision for continued growth. Future plans include expanding outdoor play areas, upgrading classroom technology, and pursuing STREAM certification to further strengthen academic programming and student outcomes.
The renovation reflects the broader values of the Central States Conference and its commitment to quality Christian education. By investing in schools like V. Lindsay, the conference is demonstrating that excellence is possible and expected even in smaller settings.
At its core, this celebration reflects the mission of Adventist education: to nurture the whole child, mind, body, and spirit, while preparing students to serve and lead. As students filled the rooms with energy and excitement on that March afternoon, one thing was unmistakably clear: the investment in these spaces is already shaping the culture of learning at V. Lindsay Seventh-day Adventist School.
And this is only the beginning.
By Schari Fontus, Superintendent, Central States Conference
central-states.org/schools/vlindsay
