WACO – Over a year into construction, the new $140.5 million, 60,000-sf Waco High School is roughly midway complete. It was one of the first schools started in the $355 million bond package voters approved in November 2021.
The common area of the new school, “Lions Way,” is surrounded by tall concrete columns. The in-progress “Monumental Staircase,” is the spiraling, 18-ft centerpiece of the room. Steel framework is complete for an additional two-story classroom wing, as well as more library and administrative space.
The four-story performing arts center is the furthest along, with framed sound and lighting booths in the back of the auditorium while the stage’s front edge overlooks an orchestra pit below.
Surrounding the center are theater tech spaces, a band hall, choir rehearsal room, and visual art classrooms that look out over the high school’s outdoor commons area.
Student and visitor parking lots will be at opposite ends of the school with a dedicated area for bus dropoffs. The school’s main entrance will also change to face Colcord Ave.
Rogers-O’Brien Construction oversees the project.
The current WHS campus will begin demolition in spring 2025.