In August 2010, Shelby passed a levy that approved construction of a new high school. Tim Tarvin, superintendent, was a part of one of the many Building Advisory Committee (BAC) for the project. The committee he was part of traveled across Ohio looking at different schools to get an idea of what they wanted for Shelby.
Once they had the design of the building, the process of constructing a high school began.
The current high school was opened in 1965. Tarvin said, “This new high school will have modern features that will really benefit both students and teachers. It’s an exciting time for Shelby schools.”
The new high school is set to open its doors on August 20. Workers are in the process of putting the finishing touches on the building. Tarvin said, “A lot of time and hard work has been put into this school. We wanted to make sure that we got it right for everyone.” Not one student has been in the high school yet. Students will be allowed to enter a few days before school starts, but they won’t be allowed in beforehand because the school will not be completed yet.
There will be three separate entries into the high school. Each one of these entries has a different design on the floor that was designed by local graphic designer Natalie Lantz. Lantz is the owner of Lantz Star Graphics, LTD in Shelby.
A feature that will see significant use is the gymnasium. The seating within the gym is the same as the current high school, but it is wider with higher ceilings. Along with the extra square footage, there is American Disability Act (ADA) that is in place. This will allow individuals with a disability to be able to maneuver around with less conflict and it will be a great deal safer for them.
The vocational agriculture (vo-ag) department has a few changes. Vo-ag students will have their own bathroom and shower. Tarvin said, “This is a great idea because they will be able to come right in and clean up from when they have been in the barn or field.” The vo-ag classroom is larger with more storage, too.
There is a multiple disability room that has been added. This is something that was not available at the high school level in Shelby. However, there was a multiple disability room available at the middle school that was accessible to students in wheelchairs and disabilities. In this room there will be a stove, washer, dryer, and a refrigerator. Students will also have their own bathroom and shower that was specially designed to meet all accommodations.
There is also a computer lab that will be available for students and the lab is wireless. Extended Learning Areas (ELA) has been installed as well. These areas can benefit both teachers and students. Tarvin said, “The idea is to make it accessible for teachers to combine classes if they are teaching related topics. This way teachers and students can have group discussions and group projects.”
The theatre has had a complete makeover. There are about 625 seats that are available, a lot larger than the 400 seats at the current high school. An orchestra pit is right below the stage.
Security measures have been put in place at the high school as well. The main entry doors leading to the office and building will be shut and locked. Any visitor will have to be let in by an office worker. Tarvin said, “We wanted to take all precautions with security in the school.”
