PESHTIGO – The Peshtigo School District invited students, families and community members to a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house at the middle/high school to celebrate the completion of the renovation and expansion.
“Our students and staff have always made the most of their facilities. But today, thanks to the generosity of our community, we are opening the doors to a modern, unique and historical learning environment,” Superintendent Patrick Rau shared during the ceremony.
“To the community of Peshtigo — thank you. Your votes, your tax dollars and your belief in our students made this day possible,” he added.
The project began with the approval of a $39.95 million referendum in Nov. 2022. Construction began in Oct. 2023 and wrapped in just under three years. The last major construction project before this was on the middle school in the 1980’s.
Major upgrades to building mechanical systems — including heating, cooling, plumbing and lighting — and security systems were done to create a safe learning environment. Additionally, four new classrooms were added, career and college preparation spaces were updated and the building was modernized overall.
Middle/high school principal Dave Moody echoed his sentiment, “When students step into classrooms that are designed for modern learning, it sends a powerful message. It says that your education matters and that your community believes in you/”
He continued, “We’re not just opening renovated halls. We’re really starting a new chapter for the next generation of Bulldog students.”
Though the district refreshed and updated the building, school officials and building planners from Performance Services highlighted the enduring history of the region and the building.
“Peshtigo is a community shaped by resilience. From our founding fathers, to the Peshtigo fire [and] to today, this building honors that rich history. As you walk through the halls, you’ll see thoughtful links to our city’s founders and our history,” Rau shared.
The entry hall to the building features a photo and timeline display about the Peshtigo Fire of 1871 and hallways are named in honor of the region and school’s history, like Ellis Avenue for politician and Peshtigo Lumber Company superintendent William A. Ellis.
The original gym from 1934 was remodeled into the library media center, but still features the original laminated wood beams that were the first of their kind to be built in the United States.
On behalf of the senior class, student Andrew Halfmann expressed gratitude for the work that went into the construction and renovation project.
“Thank you to all the dedicated workers who worked endless hours to give us a new and restored school.”
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