Students at Marshall High School are experiencing a revitalized educational environment thanks to significant renovations funded by a $41.9 million bond referendum approved by the community in 2023. The construction, initiated in spring 2024, has resulted in a new gym, a Career and Technology Education (CTE) building, and upgraded classrooms, enhancing the overall learning atmosphere for the school’s students.
Superintendent Dr. Richele Langley noted that the campus, which encompasses over 220,000 square feet, had not undergone major renovations since its establishment in 1979. While the completion date for all projects has been extended to March 2025, most of the significant updates have already been accomplished, with only minor finishing touches remaining.
New Facilities Enhance Educational Opportunities
During the planning stages for the bond, district officials actively engaged with community members to gather insights on desired improvements. This feedback highlighted a strong interest in expanding the CTE programs, which led to the inclusion of a dedicated CTE building in the bond package. Located on the east side of the campus, this new facility supports various programs, including construction trades, welding, and automotive repair.
Tyler Moody, a welding instructor at Marshall High School, expressed optimism about the new environment, stating, “The welding shop is a great opportunity for the welding students to be in a new environment and get other students involved in welding.” Similarly, Andrea McGuire, director of agricultural education, emphasized the positive impact of the upgrades, noting that they have increased awareness of the diverse opportunities available within the school’s programs.
The renovated CTE classrooms now also host new courses, such as cosmetology, medical studies, robotics, and process systems, providing students with a broader range of learning experiences.
Dedicated Spaces for Sports and Learning
The new gymnasium offers a dedicated space for the school’s athletic teams and spirit groups to practice. Superintendent Langley described it as a beautiful facility, complete with a full-size court, dressing rooms, and storage areas for coaches. Previously, cheerleaders and color guard members were forced to practice in the cafeteria, but the new gym provides an environment tailored for their needs. Senior Lynlee Moore, a member of the color guard, remarked, “I think the renovations are pretty and have given our campus a real facelift.”
In addition to athletic facilities, the school has introduced mock classrooms and courtrooms to prepare students interested in teaching and law careers. Dr. Langley mentioned plans to facilitate field trips for elementary students, allowing high school students to gain practical experience in teaching.
The high school’s Go Center has also been enhanced, featuring an expanded counseling office and a row of computers for student use. The library received upgrades, including a new technology room and comfortable seating, creating a welcoming space for study and collaboration.
To further modernize the campus, the school has converted hallways that previously housed lockers into collaboration rooms equipped with seating and dry erase boards. This change reflects a shift in student needs, as lockers are no longer utilized, with remaining lockers now limited to the gyms and CTE building. The east side of the campus is undergoing additional modifications to include seating areas and charging stations, fostering a more collegiate atmosphere.
Dr. Langley concludes, “We want the kids to start getting the feel of, ‘Oh, this is what it would feel like to go to college.’” With these renovations, Marshall High School is not just updating its facilities but also enriching the educational experience for its students, preparing them for future success.
