Global Impact STEM Academy Breaks Ground on Phase II of Upper Campus

Global Impact STEM Academy broke ground on its Phase II expansion of the Upper Academy this week after closing on its bond sale. 

The new 32,000-square-foot facility, located on Clark State College’s Leffel Lane campus, expands opportunities for high school students in bioscience, agriculture, engineering and technology. The $18.9 million project will complete the Upper Campus, which was opened earlier this year.

“Breaking ground is another major milestone for our school and community,” says Josh Jennings, superintendent and founding director of Global Impact STEM Academy. “This project brings our vision full circle, allowing us to bring every high school student together under one roof in an environment built for collaboration, creativity and innovation.” 

Estimated to be complete in fall 2027, the new building will expand the Upper Campus footprint to more than 65,000 square feet and bring together all high school students, grades 9 through 12, into a single space. 

The Upper Academy opened in August, three months ahead of schedule, according to the academy’s press release. The 29,880-square-foot facility currently serves students in grades 10 through 12.

Phase II features will include 15 flexible classrooms designed for hands-on, interdisciplinary instruction; six STEM and science labs supporting bioscience, agriculture, engineering and aerospace technology courses; and a state-of-the-art esports lab with glass walls serving as the focal point of the new STEM Commons. It also includes a technology center, college and career offices, guidance and mental health services, and dedicated special education spaces.

“The design of this building reflects input from our students, staff and community,” says Jennings. “Every space is intentional and forward-looking, ensuring our students have access to the tools and experiences they need to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.” 

Marker Construction will design and build the project, along with West Central Ohio Port Authority. According to the press release, the cost of construction is $16.3 million, with a total project budget of approximately $18.9 million which includes design, furnishings, contingency and site development costs. 

After the new Upper Academy expansion opens in fall 2027, the South Limestone Campus will transition to serve grades 6 through 8. 

Applications open November 14 for current fifth-grade students interested in joining Global Impact STEM Academy as sixth graders for the 2026-27 school year. Families must submit an online application by January 30 and attend one of two informational sessions held at the Upper Academy on January 21 or February 3. A public open house for prospective families will take place on November 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the South Limestone campus. 

Enrollment at Global Impact is determined through a public lottery system that ensures fair and open access for students across Ohio.