The schoolhouse took another step towards completion last week with the addition of our gorgeous stained glass window. Sitting at the forefront of attention in the back wall of the chapel, this beautifully created window depicts the southeastern view from Whitetop Mountain and features rhododendron blooms, trilliums, red spruce trees, and our beloved Blue Ridge Mountains. The piece was brought to life by Marilynn Peacock of The Glass Peacock in Abingdon, Va, and was inspired by the original stained glass windows of the chapel.

We broadcasted a live walkthrough of the schoolhouse, complete with Aaron’s commentary on its progress, last week via Facebook and Instagram. We have downloaded that video to YouTube, which can be viewed here- https://youtu.be/ilXfybXodME , or seen below.

The schoolhouse is now entering phase 2 of construction. The exterior of the building has been polished up with refreshed poplar siding, refurbished windows, and a new roof. On the interior, the foundation has been strengthened and the walls have been demoed. Walking through the building you can imagine children running from the dining room to the front porch to watch the birds fly over our rain garden. You can picture the chapel full of eager learners listening to a wildlife rehabilitator talk about some of his ambassador animals. You can practically hear the giggling coming from the dormitory rooms on the second floor as school groups bond over their excitement for the natural world.

We can’t wait for this space to be bustling with visitors eager for their next adventure.