(L-R): Greene Co Superintendent Tim Christensen, School Board President Steve Fisher, Community Leader Chris Deal, Emily Finch (granddaughter of Dick and Delores), Tracy Deal

Following their initial announcement of a $100,000 donation toward the career academy project with the Greene County School District, two Jefferson residents recently gave their first pledge.

Dick and Delores Finch gave a $35,000 check to the district on Tuesday. They made their announcement of a $100,000 contribution in February of 2018 for the construction of the facility. The academy will be staffed and operated by Iowa Central Community College. Greene County School Board President Steve Fisher remarks on the donation.

“Well I just thought it was a great gesture and really showed a lot of confidence in the project and what the school system is trying to do with their relationship with the academy, Iowa Central, and DMACC (Des Moines Area Community College). I mean obviously it’s great to have this kind of support from the community, and we welcome that and any others that might want to come through.”

Construction of the career academy remains on target for opening by August of 2020.