The Kenosha Area Business Alliance (KABA), along with the City of Kenosha, the Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD), and Gateway Technical College, will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, January 14, at 4:00 p.m. for the new LakeView Technology Academy building, 5533 26th Ave., at the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood (KIN). The science, engineering, technology and math (STEM)-focused high school is moving to the KIN from its current location at 9449 88th Ave. in Pleasant Prairie.

“Today’s ribbon cutting for the new LakeView Technology Academy at the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood is more than just the opening of a building — it’s the opening of doors to limitless opportunities for our young people,” said Kenosha Mayor Dave Bogdala. “This facility represents the future of education, innovation, and collaboration in Kenosha. By giving students access to cutting-edge technology and real-world learning experiences, we are preparing them to be the leaders, thinkers, and creators who will drive our community forward. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our city, fostering innovation, and building a strong foundation for economic growth.”

“KABA’s vision for Kenosha County is to be the premier destination for new investment and talent in the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor. Collaborating with key partners to relocate, expand, and improve our highest performing STEM high school in the center of our city is a concept that helps Kenosha County reach that vision,” remarked KABA President Nicole Ryf. “Reinvesting in LakeView is developing an important talent pipeline for our businesses, transforming a formerly industrial neighborhood into a vibrant hub of education and innovation, and creating bright futures for our students.”

LakeView is a choice high school within KUSD and maintains a unique partnership with Gateway that provides students with college-level instructors and coursework. The new facility will maintain a 400-student enrollment while expanding its unique programming for all KUSD high school students to take STEM education.

“We are extremely grateful to KABA, the City of Kenosha, and Gateway for their incredible financial support in creating a new home for LakeView,” said KUSD Superintendent Dr. Jeff Weiss. “This state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Kenosha represents a significant investment in our students’ futures. It will enhance learning for our current students and open doors to new opportunities for students across our community.”

LakeView and KUSD staff have been working quickly to move into its new building since the beginning of its winter break. The first day of classes for students will be Tuesday, January 21.

“We are thrilled to welcome our students to their new school in January,” said LakeView Principal Dr. Beth Ormseth. “This project represents the culmination of collaboration and a shared vision for our students’ success. I’m excited to see the space come to life with their energy, creativity, and passion for learning as we begin this next chapter together.”

Gateway Technical College will continue its partnership with KUSD at the new Lakeview Technology Academy offering IT, CNC, and advanced manufacturing classes during the day. They will also continue to offer evening courses in their Electromechanical Maintenance Technician program.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Gateway Technical College and LakeView Technology Academy,” said Gateway Technical College President and CEO Ritu Raju. “This magnificent new building will be where our shared goals of preparing students for employment and lifelong learning – along with expanding partnerships with area businesses, industries, and the community as a whole – will come to life. Our work and partnership with LakeView Technical Academy will always focus on how we can best support students on their academic and development journey.  Gateway is honored to be a part of this prestigious event, and we look forward to helping support the success of our Kenosha community for many years and many generations to come.”

Riley Construction served as the general contractor for the project. Partners in Design Architects provided architectural services.

The 48,602 square foot LakeView building is the first completed development on the KIN site. The KIN is a 107-acre former auto manufacturing site in the middle of the city, located between 30th and 23rd Avenues and 52nd and 60th Streets.

KIN President Kelly Armstrong said, “At the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, we are dedicated to building a vibrant ecosystem that connects education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, fostering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. The opening of LakeView Technology Academy is a significant step in creating future-forward jobs by equipping students with the advanced skills needed to lead in industries of tomorrow. Together, we are preparing a workforce ready to drive economic growth and shape the future of Wisconsin’s economy.”