Fred Scheller, whose stepson Harold Fatzer attends LAHS, was honored recently at a reception.

According to Judy Juneau, principal at the school, Scheller volunteered to approach Schmidt Builders’ Supply, Topeka, for a donation for the shelter.

“When the blueprints were finalized, Fred was able to procure all the lumber we needed to build the bulk of the structure for free,” Juneau said at the reception honoring Scheller and other Friends of Education at Lawrence schools. ”… We at LAHS are honored to celebrate the contributions made by Fred, and we thank him for caring enough to help in his own, unassuming way.”

Juneau said the shelter actually was part of a project undertaken by a group from the current Leadership Lawrence class. After discussing possibilities with LAHS staff and students, the shelter project was born. Juneau said alternative high school staff and students thought an outdoor shelter would increase aesthetics at the school, as well as provide an outdoor classroom and a gathering place.

“We worked with the Leadership Lawrence group, and it was during the final phase that Harold’s stepdad stepped in and said, ‘I can do this,'” Juneau said.

After procuring lumber and materials, Scheller followed through.

“He came, along with a couple of other guys who work for him, and provided labor,” Juneau said.

Now, students and staff enjoy the space.

“Our plan has been to put some other outdoor furniture out there,” Juneau said. “Kids eat out there when the weather’s nice. Soccer players from Lawrence High School have used it. It’s already had quite a bit of use and different functions.”