Chicago Construction News staff writer
Officials in the Town of Cicero broke ground Tuesday on a new early childhood education centre, marking an emotional milestone for the community and the Dominick family.
The Brian Dominick Early Childhood Center will be built at 1630 S. 59th Ave., the former site of Daniel Burnham Elementary School, which has been demolished to make way for the new facility.
Leaders from Cicero School District 99, local officials, educators and students attended the ceremony, which focused on expanding early learning opportunities for families in the community.
Superintendent Aldo Calderin said the project reflects a long-term investment in students and families.
He told attendees the new centre will have a lasting impact by strengthening early childhood education and supporting future generations.
School board president Tom Tomschin highlighted the collaboration behind the project and the importance of building a strong foundation for young learners.
A prayer was delivered by town chaplain Ismael Vargas, who offered a blessing for the facility and the children it will serve.
The centre is named after Brian Dominick, the late son of town president Larry Dominick, who attended the ceremony with his wife, Diana Dominick. Brian Dominick died Oct. 1, 2024.
“This is more than a building—it’s a promise to our children and to our future,” Larry Dominick said. “Brian believed deeply in family, in community, and in giving every child the opportunity to succeed.”
He said the project will serve as a lasting legacy, creating a place where children can “grow, learn and thrive.”
Town trustees, members of the District 99 board, school administrators and students also attended the event.
The new facility is expected to serve young learners in Cicero for years to come, replacing the former school with a modern space dedicated to early childhood education.
Sure woulda been nice to keep the name Burnham for all of us who attended there through the years.