Video: Saltillo High School Students, Teachers Enjoying More Space

[syndicaster id=’5993560′]

SALTILLO, Miss. (WCBI) — One of the fastest growing communities in North Mississippi is seeing some much needed relief at the local high school.As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports,  students and teachers are enjoying major renovations thanks to a multi million dollar bond issue.

For the first time in many years, Saltillo High School students have a place to sit at lunch, with plenty of chairs and tables in the cafeteria.

“Whole time I’ve been in Lee County schools we have been really crowded in Saltillo area especially Saltillo High School,” said Susan Killens, childhood nutrition director for Lee County Schools.

An addition nearly doubled the size of the cafeteria. The expansion includes more serving lines for nearly 300 students.

“It’s been a lot easier just to get through the line and then you can come in here , it’s not cramped and you’re not having to steal somebody’s chair,” said SHS Junior Reagan Newton.

There’s also 12 new classrooms in a new two story wing of the school.

“Because of overcrowding and space issues, we were in  different places all over the building and now English is now all together again, so we can plan and work together,” said English Teacher Sara Crouch.

A 13 million dollar bond package, approved by voters two years ago, is paying for the expansion.

Educators say the community support is vital to the school’s success.

“The relationship between the community and the school has to be a good one, it just opens up more opportunities for the school itself and the community, gives a ton of students more ways to do their work,” said SHS Senior Daniel Blassingame.

“The youth is the future of America so we need to make sure we get the education and things we need,” said SHS Senior Catherine Adams.

“The children from the community are here and knowing we have their support and they are behind us in what we are doing here makes our job a whole lot easier,” said Math Teacher Jenny Simmons.

There are nearly 1,000 students at the high school this year.

The bond package also allowed for improvements at nearly every school in Lee County.