Hattiesburg, Mississippi – Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker and Ward 4 Councilwoman Mary Dryden joined House of Representatives Percy Watson and Missy McGee, Hattiesburg Public School District Board of Trustees and district officials on Monday, January 13 to celebrate breaking ground on Hattiesburg High School’s new additions and renovations.

These improvements include an additional structure that will be approximately 22,000 square feet and span two-stories. It will be home to at least 12 new classrooms. Additional improvements include a new bus drop off for students and increased campus security.

“This is a great day to celebrate the changes that are taking place here on campus,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Williams. “This project would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our maintenance team, Codaray Construction and Allred Stolarski Architects. It also wouldn’t be possible without the support from our Board of Trustees, the City of Hattiesburg, the Hattiesburg community and most of all – our Tiger family.”

The new building will open onto a covered terrace which will lead to a central courtyard space designed for students. Inside of the new courtyard, space will be provided for a multipurpose area including a stage for performing arts, pep rallies and more. A new restroom will also be added to the courtyard area.

This project is funded through the 2018 bond renewal that passed with 94% percent of the vote. This provided for $22.5 Million in funding to go toward much-needed renovations and improvements to Hattiesburg Public School District facilities.

“During a time when people said no one would get behind our school system – the citizens of Hattiesburg stepped up in a big way. It sent a bold message,” said Barker. “This new construction will transform the learning environment for our students. When we put our ceremonial shovels in the dirt, we are making a choice – to choose education over ignorance and hope over fear – taking control over our own destiny. We look forward to cutting the ribbon on this project in a few short months.“

President of the Board of Trustees Delores McNair added:

“We know there are challenges within our community, but projects like this highlight the commitment we have to Hattiesburg. Our schools will be an oasis for our students – for safety and for learning.”

This project does not have an anticipated completion date; however, the District is hopeful for completion by early Summer.

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