Buffalo, NY – The Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School (BuffSci) is thrilled to announce the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of BuffSci@Medaille High School on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. This historic event marks a significant milestone for BuffSci as it expands its impact on education in Buffalo, NY.

Over 600 students in grades 9 through 12 have already begun their educational journey in the newly renovated building, which was transformed after a $2.5 million renovation made possible by the Charter School Growth Fund. Located on a historic 14-acre campus formerly home to Medaille University, BuffSci acquired this site in May 2024 through a partnership with the Charter Schools Development Corporation (CSDC).

Dr. Joseph Polat, Executive Director of BuffSci, shared his excitement, stating, “This is more than a new school—it’s a beacon of opportunity. Thanks to the generous support of the CSDC and Charter School Growth Fund, our students will experience world-class education in a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a cornerstone for the future of Buffalo.”

The grand opening celebrates the transformation of the Medaille campus into BuffSci@Medaille High School, featuring modern classrooms, a gymnasium, a state-of-the-art auditorium, and spaces dedicated to fostering student success both academically and socially.

Capital Campaign Launched

In addition to the renovations, BuffSci has launched an ambitious $14 million Capital Campaign to purchase the Medaille campus and fund further development. Jim Dentinger, Volunteer Chair of BuffSci’s Capital Campaign and President of NOCO Development, emphasized the transformative nature of this investment. “By supporting BuffSci’s capital campaign, donors are not just contributing to education—they are investing in the future of our community and ensuring that students from underserved areas have access to quality education.”

JoAnne Hudecki, member of the Capital Campaign Committee, added, “This campaign will also enable the development of a new Discovery Center and outdoor athletic field, expanding the campus’s capacity to serve not only our students but also the broader Buffalo community.”

20th Anniversary Celebration Kickoff

The ribbon-cutting also kicks off BuffSci’s 20th anniversary celebrations. Since 2004, BuffSci has been committed to closing historical urban academic and income disparities while preparing students for college and careers. As part of the 20th-anniversary celebration, BuffSci will host a series of events throughout the 2024-2025 school year, culminating in the BuffSci Gala in Spring 2025.

Dr. Polat added, “As we reflect on two decades of success, this campus stands as a testament to the incredible growth of our organization and the hard work of our students, educators, and supporters. Together, we continue to break barriers and provide life-changing opportunities.”

Partnerships and Thanks

Dr. Polat extended his gratitude to the BuffSci community, funders, and construction partners who made the grand opening possible. Special recognition was given to Peyton Barlow Co., Inc., led by Mike and Mario Morga, for their work as the general contractor. Their dedication, along with the contributions of all subcontractors, brought this vision to life.

“BuffSci is raising the bar for educational success in Buffalo,” said Michael Morga, President of Peyton Barlow Co. “We are proud to be associated with such a significant project.”

The ceremony will feature remarks from key stakeholders, including Deputy Mayor Dr. Callie Johnson, NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal People-Stokes, BuffSci Principal Ashley Piazza, Assistant Principal Kellie Lowe, and members of BuffSci’s Capital Campaign Committee.

BuffSci extends a special thank you to the Charter School Growth Fund, CSDC, and the BuffSci operations team for their tireless efforts to make this day a reality.

About BuffSci/RocSci

BuffSci/RocSci is dedicated to providing an excellent K-12 academic experience, preparing students for college and careers as well-rounded, contributing citizens. With a mission to eliminate historical urban academic and income disparities, BuffSci offers a STEM-infused curriculum, character development, and a focus on college readiness, serving over 2,000 students across seven campuses in Buffalo and Rochester.

About Charter Schools Development Corporation (CSDC)

CSDC is a nonprofit committed to developing and financing affordable charter school facilities, helping to provide educational opportunities to underserved students. CSDC has supported thousands of students across the U.S. by eliminating barriers to quality education.

About Charter School Growth Fund

The Charter School Growth Fund supports the nation’s best public charter schools by investing in leaders dedicated to providing high-quality education, especially in underserved communities. Schools in their portfolio serve over 450,000 students nationwide.