by Hayley Wielgus
WINONA (KYTX) - An exciting development is underway at Winona ISD. The district is breaking ground on a new high school, and renovating three other campuses. CBS 19's Hayley Wielgus explains how this will improve educational opportunities for students.
The Winona High School Class of 2013 has a special distinction. They'll be the first students to graduate from the new high school.
"I think it's kinda cool, because when my dad was a senior he was the first to graduate in that school right there, and I'll be the first one to graduate in the new school," said Ronnie Marsh.
Last May, voters approved a $27.5 million bond to pay for construction of the new high school, as well as renovations to the elementary and middle schools.
"I'm pretty excited because it's a new school, we get new everything, new lockers, more space because we're kind of cramped because we're slowly growing into a bigger school," said Colton Chadbourne.
"We're putting in new security features, new fire alarm systems, we're changing the aesthetic looks of the building," said superintendent Wiley Vonner.
Vonner says the renovations and new construction will ease overcrowding at all campuses, as well as institute state-of-the art technology.
"Every teacher will have a smart board and kids will have interactive classrooms and they'll have a safe, clean environment to work in which is always conducive to student learning."
For the first time in 30 years, the high school will have a civic auditorium on campus. Students will soon have a way to showcase their skills to the community. The high school campus will include a separate building that houses an expanded band hall and agricultural science department. Construction is expected to be complete by the fall of 2011.
