Even though not all of the construction work is done, Leavenworth High School already has undergone a dramatic change, the building’s principal said.
“What a difference,” John Parker said.
And despite some ongoing work, Parker said the school will be ready for students when classes begin Tuesday morning.
The school has received additions and other renovations as part of a $57.8 million bond issue. The bond issue also has paid for the construction of a new elementary school, the renovation of two elementary buildings and the construction of Pioneer Stadium behind the high school.
Assistant Principal Christina Lentz said there are few rooms in the high school that haven’t been touched by the renovations.
She said the renovations have provided larger classrooms. The school also now has enough classrooms to give each teacher his or her own room. In the past, some teachers were doubled up.
“Everybody will have the same technology in their classroom,” she said.
And the entire school now has air conditioning.
The renovations have provided other new features at the school including an enclosed walkway between the main high school building and another structure that houses physical education rooms as well as drafting and automotive programs.
The high school also has a new room for video broadcasting from which students can air live school announcements, Lentz said.
Renovations to the auditorium include a ticket booth and sound booth. The drama department also now has a workshop behind the stage.
The auditorium also has new seating.
Both of the school’s gymnasiums have new bleachers.
Lentz also said the interior of the high school is brighter.
Parker said construction is scheduled to continue into December. He said most of the work will take place after school hours once the academic year starts.
Classes are getting off to a later than usual start this year in the Leavenworth school district to give personnel time to get renovated buildings ready.
Parker said everything moved out of the high school and placed in storage during the summer has been brought back.
“Now we just have unpack and get ready,” he said.
Lentz said school officials know there will be some hiccups as the school year starts.
Parker said school officials plan to spend the first hour Tuesday giving students tours of the renovated high school.
