BEND, OREGON — Construction is accelerating at Bend Senior High School as part of a sweeping modernization effort funded by a $249.7 million bond measure approved by voters in November 2022. The project marks one of the largest school construction undertakings in Central Oregon history, with more than half of the total funding allocated to Bend Senior High’s transformation.

The multi-phase construction is the centerpiece of the Bend-La Pine School District’s effort to update aging facilities, enhance safety, and provide modern learning environments. After a year-long design process involving students, families, staff, and community members, construction officially began in 2024.

“Phase one is a three-story classroom building, and that's the main structure in phase one,” said Principal Chris Reece. “But also in phase one, you're going to have a new main entrance, and you're going to have, which is going to be two stories with the second story a collaboration space for students and staff.”

The classroom building and new entry plaza are being constructed with a smaller building footprint, which prompted the design team to build vertically.

“So just with it having a smaller footprint, it was important to go vertical to save some of the real estate for additional parking, field space, and student outdoor space. And so, that's that's why we went three stories,” explained Mike Condon, the school facilities construction project manager.

The upgraded facilities will also include a new counseling center, student commons, and outdoor courtyard, providing both academic and recreational improvements for students.

Importantly, school leaders say the construction won’t compromise the educational offerings that have long defined Bend Senior High.

“All of our classes, all of our International Baccalaureate classes, all of our career and technical education courses will remain intact,” Reece said. “And staff, students, and families can expect that same great, rewarding experience that Bend High is known for.”

A major aspect of the modernization is the rebuilding of the auditorium, which was unexpectedly torn down last summer due to serious structural issues. The previous structure, known as the largest indoor venue in Central Oregon, will be rebuilt on the same site.

The new auditorium will feature 1,400 seats, matching the capacity of its predecessor, and will include both main floor and balcony seating, the district confirmed in a release.

Reece emphasized that while the school is embracing new design and construction methods, it remains committed to honoring the legacy and culture of Bend High.

“How do we incorporate this rich tradition and history that we have at Bend High School into a new build, and there's going to be some phenomenal features,” Reece said.

The bond project reflects a growing trend among school districts across the U.S. to invest in 21st-century educational environments that support a wide range of learning styles and extracurricular needs. From flexible classrooms to tech-equipped collaboration spaces, the upgrades aim to serve Bend’s evolving student population for decades to come.

The full project is expected to be completed by August 2028, positioning Bend Senior High as a state-of-the-art learning campus that blends tradition with innovation.

Originally reported by Steele Haugen in Central Oregon Daily News.