Today, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana donated $500,000 to the Gary Community School Corporation to fund upgrades that will help jump start basic needs across the district.
The Gary Indiana public schools were founded in 1906, developed by Superintendent William A. Wirt from 1907 to 1938, and quickly expanded into an illustrious example of Progressive education. Wirt implemented the Gary Plan which was the site of one of the first well-known experiments in progressive schooling in the 1910s and 1920s based on the “work-study-play” of educating the “whole child.”
Gary Community School Superintendent Dr. Yvonne Stokes wants to use Hard Rock’s donation to make significant upgrades and equipment purchases that will impact teaching and learning across the district, beginning with, gymnasium upgrades such as wall mats, floor resurfacing and the replacement of stadium bleachers, a library/media center and security equipment upgrades with staff training. Dr. Stokes is also hopeful the donation will fund AV equipment including a sound system and microphones, along with smartboards, bookcases and an indoor playground sensory wall with ergonomic lighting.
According to Superintendent Stokes, “When I first assumed the role of superintendent, I learned quite a bit about the corporate citizenship that Hard Rock of Northern Indiana consistently displays in this community. It certainly feels great to witness this generosity first-hand in support of our students. I am excited for the students, and we are grateful for this vote of confidence in our ability to provide the best educational experience for every child we serve.”
In response, Matt Schuffert, President of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, said, “We direct our philanthropic giving to organizations that are most in need in the surrounding areas. Our leadership and staff at Hard Rock are mindful of the important role that we all play in the growth of the community. At Hard Rock International, the motto has always been to Love All, Serve All. And we are committed to do our part to make not only Gary’s future but all of Northwest Indiana’s future, an outstanding success.
About Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana:
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana’s $300 million casino and entertainment destination is located on 29th Avenue and Burr Street, just off the I80/94 Expressway. The casino opened to the public on May 14, 2021. Hard Rock Rock’s premier 200,000 square foot entertainment complex features over 1700 slots and 80 table games totaling more than 2,100 gaming positions. Its five food venues include Hard Rock Café, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, YOUYU Noodle Bar, Fresh Harvest and Constant Grind Coffee Shop. It also features a retail shop and a 1,954-seat Hard Rock Live performance venue.
About Gary Community School Corporation
The Gary Community School Corporation prepares students for college and careers in a diverse, equitable, student-centered environment. The Gary Community School Corporation aspires to broaden the horizons for our scholars at each academic phase, offering a comprehensive and culturally inclusive learning environment. Our goal is to furnish our students with the essential resources to pursue and realize their life’s aspirations. At GCSC, we are dedicated to advancing top-tier education within a safe and organized setting, guaranteeing that our learners attain the knowledge, skills, and values vital to their development into industrious, responsible global citizens in a technologically advanced society. For more information, please visit www.garyschools.org.
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