Neither wind nor rain nor cold rooms or supply-chain issues were enough to prevent Ohio Hi-Point (OHP) from completing most of the renovations on their new career center. And they marked that five-year-long accomplishment with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday afternoon, Dec. 1.
“Here we are today at about 98 percent done,” Dr. Rick Smith, superintendent, announced. The few loose ends they have left can be attributed to the aforementioned supply chain problems.
Fundraising for the project began in the fall/winter of 2017, and planning commenced the next May after voters across five counties passed the permanent improvement levy. This was the first time the district had placed an issue on the ballot in 40 years. The design team then visited other schools for ideas and worked with Freytag & Associates, Inc., an architecture firm out of Sidney.
OHP broke ground Feb. 4, 2021, working with Monarch Construction Company, Cincinnati. Despite the roadblocks, they finished renovations in 18 months. But it wasn’t easy.
“The staff and students were troopers. They studied in rooms with no heat, too cold, dust in the air, noise, some having to move classrooms twice in one year,” an emotional Smith said. “My deepest appreciation from the bottom of my heart.”
Anne Reames, school board president, added her thanks to their supporters. “The students from these regions are benefactors of your generosity,” she said. “Their 21st-century education will prepare them well for the 21st-century job market.”
After OHP students cut the ceremonial ribbon, guests were offered a free Carolina-style barbecue meal of pulled pork and sides, which was prepared by young people in the culinary arts program. They were also invited to tour the building, meet with the faculty and staff, and taste various desserts on tables set up in the hallways.
To find out more about OHP’s Bellefontaine campus programs, along with the nearly 60 satellite courses of study, visit ohiohipoint.com.
