BEND, Ore. – The transformation of Bend Senior High School is moving full speed ahead, with school leaders confirming that the project is both on budget and on schedule—and possibly even a little ahead.
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“Phase one is amazing. It's going to be all red brick and glass storefront, and state of the art,” said Bend High Principal Christopher Reese, describing the first major stage of the $250 million campus modernization effort.
As juniors and seniors helped prepare classrooms and hallways Tuesday for the incoming freshman class, just outside, construction crews were hard at work on a new three-story classroom building—a centerpiece of Phase One.
“They are making a lot of progress this summer, which we are excited about, obviously. They're putting on the final touches before school starts tomorrow,” Reese noted.
Construction began last summer with the goal of modernizing Bend Senior High, a 121-year-old institution that has long been a fixture in the community. The four-year project will bring state-of-the-art facilities, new learning environments, and upgraded safety measures.
Phase One includes not only the new classroom building but also a redesigned entrance and new collaboration spaces for students and staff. Crews are currently installing the building’s brick facade, blending historic aesthetics with a modern, energy-efficient design.
Phase One is expected to wrap up by August 2026, giving the next generation of Bend High students access to upgraded learning spaces.
Looking further ahead, Phase Two is scheduled to begin in June 2026. “Phase Two consists of a new gymnasium, a new auditorium, a new performing arts center and a new library, and finishing out the new commons,” Reese explained.
This second stage will expand extracurricular and cultural opportunities for students, reinforcing Bend High’s role not just as an academic institution, but also as a community hub for arts, athletics, and public events.
With construction zones overlapping the active campus, safety has been a key priority. Fencing and tarp now line the project’s perimeter to reduce dust and ensure safe passage for students moving between buildings.
Despite the disruptions, the school has chosen a guiding philosophy for the transition period. “We are so excited for this new school year. We have made a choice—'Culture Over Construction'. We are thriving forward,” Reese said.
The full modernization effort is expected to conclude by August 2028, marking one of the largest investments ever made in Bend’s educational infrastructure. Once complete, the project will not only modernize learning facilities but also provide new spaces for collaboration, creativity, and community engagement.
For students, teachers, and residents alike, the project is a symbol of Bend’s growth and commitment to its future. By investing in updated classrooms, advanced technology, and modern performance and athletic facilities, Bend Senior High will be prepared to serve generations of students to come.
Originally reported by Colby Enebrad, Reporter in Central Oregon Daily News.
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