Olympic High School officially turned shovels on its modernization project.
Work has already begun at the school. Crews are digging a utility trench in the back of the building. They also have begun converting the library to science labs and classrooms.
“With each new change, I’ve gotten a little more excited about what this school will be like in fall of 2018,” Principal Rebecca Johnson said during the ceremony.
By fall of 2018, the center of the school will be demolished and replaced with a two-story building. The building will house modern career & technical education areas, permanent classrooms to replace portables, an expanded commons, and more.
Welcoming School
Planning for the project began in 2016. Architects incorporated thoughts from staff, students and families into the design.
“We want a school that welcomes and supports our students and families. That respects our many cultures and traditions,” Johnson told students during the ceremony. “We want Olympic High School to be a place that you’re proud to walk into every day.”
Tomorrow’s Careers
At the ceremony, Superintendent David McVicker spoke about the rapid changes taking place in education and our world.
“Keeping pace is a huge challenge that faces all schools,” he said. “How do we make sure that what we teach you, how we teach you, and the schools that we teach you in get you ready for tomorrow’s careers?
“The construction here at Olympic is part of the work we’re doing to meet that challenge.”
Community Investment
Johnson said the project is a message from the Central Kitsap community.
“They’re investing in this work because they care about you. They believe in our school. And they expect great things,” she said to the students. “From what I’ve seen as principal, I know that you deserve it … you can do great things.”