Hannah McClure School reimagined as a Center for connection
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
The Hannah McClure Cardinal Community Center building has never been about bricks and mortar.
From its time as a bustling, family-oriented elementary school and later preschool, to its new purpose as our Community Center, the building has always represented heart and Cardinal pride.
"This is a physical expression of our district's mission to connect our district and community as one, to grow greatness in every student," said Superintendent Dustin Howard. "Our mission is not just words on paper but something we strive to live out daily."
That is certainly the case at the Center, a vibrant space that now serves the community in numerous ways.
The school's transformation not only preserves a familiar landmark but also breathes new life into it, offering resources and opportunities that benefit students, families, and members of the community.
Whether it’s a guitar class, a sewing group, a pickleball game, or simply a place to gather, the center is designed to bring people together.
With plans for additional rental spaces, expanded programming, and partnerships, the possibilities continue to grow.
"It's not just what the Center offers but what it could offer," said Christy Bush, Director of Community Schools. "The center belongs to everyone."
The Center features two indoor pickleball courts, a recreation room equipped with ping pong tables, a music room, an art room, and multiple rooms for meetings and trainings. A large conference room, the former school library, is an ideal space for large-scale meetings.
CCPS is actively seeking instructors to lead Community Education classes in areas such as knitting, sewing, crochet, dance, yoga, and music. Much of the equipment for these programs has been donated by local partners, underscoring the collaborative nature of the project. (Contact Christy Bush if interested or for more information.)
"We are busy every day," said Ms. Bush. "From universities to government agencies to businesses who need a central meeting space, to individuals who want to play pickleball or throw a birthday party, we have it all."
For GRC media specialist Carrie Konstantopoulos, the Center is a special place. Not only did she attend Hannah McClure Elementary, but was hired to teach there as her first job out of college.
Ms. K spent eight years at McClure until the schools consolidated in 2014. "When we heard it was going to be a community center, I was elated because I believe this location is the heart of the community," she said. "It has always had a close-knit, family feel, and I'm thrilled that spirit will continue in a new way."
Superintendent Howard said the Center is part of a broader effort to prepare students not only academically, but as future community members.
"Our success is measured not just by graduation," he said, "but by whether students choose to return to Winchester and Clark County to live and raise families."
The Center will also serve as a hub for district and community collaboration, supporting programs that promote leadership, communication, and civic engagement among students.
It may be a building in theory, but in reality, it's a movement. A movement to connect, serve, and grow greatness...together.
"The Hannah McClure Center will be accessible to the public as a shared space for education, recreation, and community connection," said Mr. Howard. "It's a symbol of what's possible when a school district partners with the local community for the benefit of everyone."
The Center held a Ribbon-Cutting and Open House on March 24 with district employees, community partners, local leaders, and residents attending.
