Big Reveal: Open house for SHHS’ renovations

Community members will soon get a chance to see the progress of construction at St. Helens High School, as the district announced it will be hosting an open house to celebrate Phase I of the St. Helens High School Improvement Bond Project.

The open house event will be May 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Helens High School, located at 2375 Gable Road in St. Helens.

“Join us and be among the first to experience the incredible changes as we unveil the remarkable transformation firsthand,” the St. Helens School District said in a recent community release.

Attendees of the open house will be able to explore the newly revamped facilities, upgraded amenities, and “cutting-edge innovations that will redefine the educational landscape” in the community.

Construction on the project began in the spring of 2022, but a number of factors have resulted in delays and adjustments to plans to stay within the parameters of the original budget. The original budget was based on a $55 million bond that voters approved in May 2021. Last year, voters approved an additional $4 million bond in the May 16, 2023 Special Election to secure a state matching matching grant.

Attendees of the open house will have an opportunity to tour the new Phase 1 additions including seeing the exterior courtyard, cafeteria, common area, and the new main office.

“Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to be part of history in the making! Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable SHHS Phase I Open House experience,” the district said in its announcement. “We look forward to engaging with you as we share Phase I of the SHHS Improvement Bond and provide details about what you can expect with Phase II.”

St. Helens High School Improvement Bond Project

The project at St. Helens High School has been in the works for almost four years. The St. Helens School District has teamed up with Soderstrom Architects, Cornerstone Project Management, and Hoffman Construction to renovate the entire High School, according to St. Helens High School’s website. Some key aspects of the updates include:

• Connecting buildings A, B, and C

• Upgraded HVAC system

• 21st-century science classrooms

• Improvements to Career Tech programs, including a medical professional pathway

• State-of-the-art technology

• Larger band and choir classrooms

• Renovating and expanding sports fields

• Redesigned school layout for easier access to community use

Find more information at https://www.sthelens.k12.or.us/bond/st-helens-high-school/st-helens-high-school-bond-information-page .