DICKINSON — Trinity Catholic Schools is expanding its early childhood and athletic facilities, aiming to better serve students and the community. The new early childhood center and gymnasium are expected to address local childcare shortages and provide new opportunities for youth sports and community events.
Phase one of the expansion includes eight new preschool classrooms, accommodating up to 144 early childhood students. This addition helps to alleviate the ongoing daycare shortage in Stark County, providing a critical resource for local families.
“Our mission is to educate the whole student—mind, body, and soul,” said Marya Skaare, president of Trinity Catholic Schools. “This facility helps us continue that effort.”
LeAnn Stasiowski / The Dickinson Press
The new gymnasium, designed for students in grades 5-8, features seating on both sides, enhancing the experience for athletes and spectators alike. The school also plans to use the facility to host community events such as youth basketball and volleyball tournaments.
“We’re excited to host fifth- and sixth-grade girls’ basketball from Bowman and other events,” said DeAnn Sheeler, director of mission advancement. “The facility allows us to expand our offerings and provide a great environment for teams.”
The expanded athletic facilities also relieve scheduling pressures for local teams. Recent changes to a three-class system for basketball and volleyball increased the demand for practice space.
LeAnn Stasiowski / The Dickinson Press
“We’re now able to accommodate varsity tournaments and more teams,” Sheeler noted. “This will greatly reduce travel time for schools that previously went to Minot or other distant locations for tournaments.”
Hosting regional tournaments is expected to have a positive impact on Dickinson’s local economy. An estimated 2,000 visitors are expected to attend these events, benefiting area businesses such as restaurants, gas stations, and hotels.
“Bringing people into our community for tournaments promotes sports and supports our local economy,” Skaare added. “We hope to attract teams from across North Dakota, South Dakota, and Montana.”
LeAnn Stasiowski / The Dickinson Press
In addition to the educational and economic benefits, the new facility includes an advertising signage program, offering local businesses the chance to support the school while gaining visibility.
“If your business wants to get involved, get your name on the wall and help us keep the lights on,” Sheeler encouraged.
The project reflects Trinity’s commitment to local collaboration, with many contractors from the Dickinson area contributing to the development. Companies such as Win Construction, EAPC, and Roers Burger Electric played key roles in the project.
LeAnn Stasiowski / The Dickinson Press
As the community looks forward to using these new facilities, Trinity Catholic Schools continues to foster a culture of education and community engagement that benefits students and families across Dickinson.
“We’re excited to bring more events to our community,” Sheeler said. “Let’s get some teams here and show them what Dickinson has to offer!”
LeAnn Stasiowski / The Dickinson Press
LeAnn M. Stasiowski is the Community Pulse reporter for The Dickinson Press, covering education, business and cultural events. She profiles local businesses and entrepreneurs, reports on economic trends and educational developments, and highlights arts, entertainment and dining in the region. From attending school board meetings to reviewing local festivals and restaurants, LeAnn provides comprehensive coverage that celebrates and informs the community.