The future building for Stillwater High School is an ambitious project resulting from a $195 million bond issue approved by local voters in 2023.
Of $195 million, approximately $70 million is allocated for the construction of the new facility, which is currently being developed north of the former Cimarron Plaza. The new high school is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.
“I think this will be the most beautiful high school in Oklahoma,” said Walter Howell, SHS Principal.
Howell said construction is well underway, with the demolition of the old shopping center nearly complete. Only one building remains, which houses the district’s technology department.This department will relocate to the former Kicker facility on North Perkins Road in about six weeks, allowing for the final building’s demolition.
Crews are currently preparing the site directly north of the football field, where they have been drilling 267 piers into the ground to support the structure. More than 90 percent of the piers are completed, and steel work is expected to begin in November, Howell said.
The district has owned the shopping center for approximately 15 years, with plans for future expansion of Stillwater Public Schools already in place.
One significant challenge has been making sure that all necessary facilities fit within the project budget. Initially, there were concerns about including performing arts spaces, but recent funding has made it possible to incorporate a choir room, orchestra room, band rooms and a black box theater, Howell said.
The new high school promises to be a substantial improvement over the current building, which has served students for over 60 years.
The modern facility will include state-of-the-art classrooms, community spaces, and resources designed to foster a creative and effective learning environment.
Some of the new features include a student center with various lounge areas, outdoor seating, a full gymnasium, and specialized spaces for Visual Arts, Family & Consumer Science, and the Performing Arts.
After the new building opens, part of the old high school will likely be used for freshmen students, while the current 10th to 12th graders will transition to the new facility.