The district broke ground in June on phase two of capital improvements approved by taxpayers in May of 2021, marking the beginning of the most substantial improvements to the building in nearly 40 years.

The summer’s construction has already brought substantial upgrades to classrooms, bathrooms, and hallways on one half of the second floor, which have provided a glimpse of what staff and students can expect when work continues on the other side of the building during holiday breaks and during the summer of 2025.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing these much-needed improvements to Jamestown High School,” said Principal Allyson Smith. “The changes we’ve already seen have transformed our classrooms into vibrant, modern spaces that truly elevate the learning experience for our students and teachers.”

Teachers and students alike are already seeing the impact of these changes. Brad Peterson has taught at JHS for 20 years and recently moved into his new classroom.

A look inside Donnelle Conti’s newly finished classroom at Jamestown High School.

“Staff and students alike turn the corner into our new hallway and immediately have a happier vibe,” said Brad Peterson, who has taught at JHS for 20 years and recently moved into his new classroom. His room now features expanded space, modern furniture, and smart technology that help create an engaging experience for presentations.

“Countless students and teachers have stopped by and said, ‘Wow, we hope the whole building ends up this nice!'” Peterson added.

Tage Hall, another longtime teacher on the second floor, echoed this sentiment – after starting the school year in a temporary classroom, his new room has exceeded expectations.

“The room was bigger and better,” Hall said, noting how the new smart boards and sound systems have helped to captivate his students. The updated furniture, particularly the spacious desks and comfortable chairs, has been a hit with the seniors he routinely teaches who appreciate the additional room and personal space.

“Getting away from the old sleigh-style desks allows more freedom to move and makes the classroom more inviting,” he added.

The newly finished hallway on the second floor of Jamestown High School.

Donnelle Conti, a social studies teacher, expressed her gratitude for the impact the renovations have had on the classroom experience.

“I am truly grateful for the new classroom and the opportunity it provides to create a more engaging learning environment,” she said. “The updated space with lots of storage, bright lighting, and new technology has been well received by students and staff. I have heard numerous students mention that they cannot wait for the rest of the building to look so nice and bright!”

Rachel Anderson, an English teacher, has also enjoyed the new, modern design of her room.

“It’s truly a fantastic space for both teaching and learning,” she said. “The space is inviting, allows for flexibility to support dynamic learning, and is fully able to accommodate a range of activities. I can’t wait to make the most of it with my students.”

Students have taken notice as well. Onnalee Nellis remarked that “the desks are more spacious and can actually fit binders and iPads,” while Vysali Bommireddipalli shared, “The chairs are so much more comfortable, making class more enjoyable.” Cemi Rosario Mejias added that the additional personal space enhances the learning environment.

Social studies teacher Brad Peterson addresses his class in one of the newly opened classrooms on the second floor of Jamestown High School. Construction will continue at JHS over the course of the next several years.

Capital improvements have also made necessary upgrades to the JHS swimming pool which were repaired during the fall semester just in time for the boys swimming season this winter.

“Although when you walk into the swimming pool area, you may not see noticeable visual changes, the changes that were made were significant to the functionality of the pool,” said Brittnay Spry, Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations.

Spry explained that during the 2023-24 school year, the district replaced the pool pak which regulates the temperature and humidity in the natatorium as well as assisting in regulating the temperature of the pool. In July, the district replaced and repaired a significant portion of critical piping under the pool deck.

“The gutter drain piping system that returns overflow water to be filtered and returned to the pool was in dire need of replacement and was completed,” Spry said. “Supply and return piping was repaired and connections to the filtration system were repaired as well. This work required the pool to be completely drained for the safety of the contractors working below the pool deck. While most people will not be able to recognize the work that has been done, it has improved the functionality and reliability of the operations at the JHS Swimming Pool.”

Later this year, much-needed construction will also begin on the cafeteria, “Old Gym,” and the JHS auditorium.

“I’m excited and optimistic for the next phases of this project, as we continue to create an environment that supports academic excellence and inspires pride in our school community,” Smith said. “This is just the beginning of a bright new chapter for Jamestown High School.”