Knoch’s newly renovated high school welcomes the community
JEFFERSON TWP — After nearly two years of planning, spending and construction, Knoch’s newly renovated high school opened its doors to community members young and old.
Knoch School District began planning for the renovation project around the summer of 2023.
At the district’s opening ceremony Sept. 2, it put an emphasis on unity, as students, parents and community members got the chance to see where their tax dollars have been spent.
“This $39 million investment represents far more than bricks and mortar. It represents our community’s commitment to our students and their futures,” superintendent David Foley said. “Knoch’s school boards have saved for many years to make this project a reality.”
With the school district’s first day on Thursday, Sept. 4, the district welcomed Knoch families with a community-oriented grand opening that included games, pizza and ice cream, Knoch’s teams selling T-shirts and apparel to raise money, and a table with information on future preschool enrollment.
The community, Foley said, has been the focus of the renovation project.
“This project is a reflection of what makes the Knoch community so special,” Foley said. “We’ve worked together to create opportunities and invest in our children. We believe the power of education can transform lives.”
The renovation included new entrances, new classrooms and learning spaces, state of-the-art science labs, a new cafeteria and commons area with features such as giant learning steps for students to use, new restrooms, a wellness area and a new kitchen. It also impacted the entrances and exits into the school’s parking lots.
“It’s good to see it get done. It’s a nice change for us,” senior Aiden Smith said. “I’m excited for the beginning of the year, especially with this brand new building.”
In total, the project cost the district around $39 million. Working with Eckles Construction Services and architecture firm DRAW Collective, the district had been pushing to get the renovation completed in time for the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, pushing the first day of school back to after Labor Day.
Foley highlighted donations that have helped “modernize” learning spaces and opportunities for Knoch High School students. A donation from Brayman Construction Corporation helped the high school set up an advanced construction robotics lab. Bayer donated a robotic arm for students to use. Students will also receive radio equipment from Saxonburg Radio for their own radio station.
“It’s looks amazing. The building also just looks nicer than it was,” sophomore Lexi Steele said.
Students were impacted by construction once it was underway, with crews and equipment working around the campus and parking spots being taken away due to alterations from the project. Meanwhile, the school had to push through multiple snags to get the project done on time. This included gas lines being struck and last-minute efforts to repave parking lot entrances due to not meeting PennDOT standards.
“It’s rewarding. I’m excited for this new building,” sophomore Olivia Hawk said. “I’m excited to reap the benefits, but I’ve also been ready for the construction to be over.”
