After nearly seven years of talks, planning, revisions and construction, ceremonies were held this week at the Laurel-Concord-Coleridge Schools.
The event marked the completion of renovations and addition of 85,000 square feet of what Superintendent Jeremy Christiansen told those in attendance "a modern learning environment with classrooms, a fitness area, commons area and storm shelter."
Christiansen thanked all those who have had a part in the completed project, which began with discussions in September of 2018 and construction that lasted through two complete school years.
Three students - fifth grader Hadley Norby; middle school student James Recob and high school junior Kolten Settje - spoke on the impact the new space will have.
"I am filled with happiness. My favorite things are the lockers, the open space and the new classrooms," Hadley said. "I will be able to make unforgettable memories in the new school."
For James, the new industrial tech areas were a highlight "for my future career path." In addition, he said he is enjoying "hanging out in the commons area and most excited for the extra curricular activities the new area will bring."
Kolten told his audience that "it is exciting to be the first to walk through the new school. I am most excited about the commons area and now we have the opportunity to try new things. We are focused on the future because 'LCC is the place to be.'"
Superintendent Christiansen thanked the members of the Board of Education - both present and past - for providing for "a safe, modern, inspiring place for our students.
Board of Education President Jay Hall said the completion of the project has "put our district on the cutting edge of education. We couldn't have done it without the partnerships within the communities we serve."
During the program, special recognition was given to two families who were instrumental in providing funds for the school's greenhouse. These were the Ernest Swanson family and the 'Doc' and Sandy Chase family.
Information was shared on a variety of ways the greenhouse will be used by students at all levels throughout the district, such as for the science department, the ag students and elementary students.
Following the program, those in attendance were able to take tours of the school.
