Walker Foundation donates grant for pool

Updated April 24, 2:24 p.m.

 

The Walker Foundation gave a $10 million grant to KHS specifically to build a swimming pool, whose location has not yet been determined. Dr. Michael Havener, principal, announced the news to the school at 2 p.m. today.

This grant is the largest donation to a public school in Missouri history, and the fifth largest donation to a public school in United States history, according to Havener.

“The dream of a pool on our campus has been around longer than I have been teaching,” Havener said. “I am excited for all the students and competitive teams.”

The design and plans for the pool must be approved before construction can begin. This will involve collaboration between KSD administration, physical education teachers, coaches and the Board of Education. Construction will then begin on the pool, to be named the Walker Natatorium, this summer; Havener said it should be ready to open for the 2015-16 school year. The pool will be used for all KHS water sports, including water polo and diving. Water safety classes will also become part of the physical education curriculum, according to Havener.