USD 475 unveiled the sparkling new Junction City High School Saturday during the ribbon cutting for the new 437,000 square foot $132 million facility. Community members were able to tour the new building afterwards and see areas ranging from the new gyms and multipurpose room to the classrooms, library and auditorium.
Fort Riley Garrison Commander, Col. William McKannay, called the new school the envy of every military installation across the Army. U.S. Senator Roger Marshall called JCHS the flagship high school for the U.S. military, and noted there is a desire for Fort Riley to be a destination of choice for military families.
USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, told JC Post that Saturday was an emotional day for him. "Because so much work has gone into the development, so many meetings, conversations surrounding it. To be able to be part of the final part of the final product is really an exciting moment." Eggleston added that he was happy for the community, the students, and all those who contributed to the work that occurred for the ribbon cutting day to happen.
JCHS principal Merrier Jackson told the audience attending the ribbon cutting ceremony that the students are the heart of the new school. "This building is symbolic of your commitment to students."
Board of Education President Dr. Anwar Khoury said the new JCHS is a flagship for Junction City, and pointed to the beauty of the building, the natural light that floods the facility, and the technology that is available. The Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, Perry Wiggins, referred to the facility as a gem.
Here are some additional photos of the new high school.
