The East End School District in Arkansas has kicked off construction of an $8 million addition to Bigelow High School, a project that will modernize the campus, expand learning opportunities, and add the district’s first on-site safe room.

KVOM Radio reports the 34,000-square-foot expansion will replace part of the existing high school building that is set to be demolished to make way for new facilities.

“The addition is going to include a new cafeteria and kitchen, several new classrooms, a new business lab, new science lab, new band room, choir room and media center,” Superintendent Heidi Wilson said. “It also includes a safe room for our students and staff so that's pretty exciting, as well. It'll be our first safe room in the district.”

Construction will continue through the 2025-26 school year, with some students shifting to temporary classrooms in the gymnasium and other spaces to minimize disruption to learning. The project is scheduled to be completed by July 2026, in time for the next school year.

A $4.2 million partnership grant from the State of Arkansas will help fund the project, covering over half of the total cost.

“This is an important investment not just for our current students, but for the future of our community,” Wilson added. “We’re making sure Bigelow High School is equipped for growth and provides the safest and best environment for learning.

Upgraded Learning Spaces

‍The addition will bring new specialized spaces that align with evolving curriculum needs. The updated science lab will allow students to complete advanced experiments, while the business lab will support career and technical education pathways. The new media center will house technology and resources that better prepare students for college and careers.

Boost for Arts and Music

‍The new band and choir rooms are a major win for Bigelow’s fine arts program, providing dedicated rehearsal and performance spaces that the old building lacked. Students and parents have long advocated for better facilities to grow music and arts offerings.

Safety and Preparedness

‍The safe room will serve as a reinforced shelter for students and staff during severe weather events — a critical addition in a state that often faces tornado threats. “We’ve wanted this for a long time,” Wilson said. “It gives families peace of mind knowing our kids and staff have a secure place to go when they need it.”

Economic and Community Benefits

‍Local contractors and tradespeople will carry out much of the construction, boosting the local economy with jobs and related spending. School leaders hope the expansion will also make the district more attractive to new families moving to the area.

Supporting Growing Enrollment

‍The district expects enrollment to keep rising in coming years, and the new addition ensures that Bigelow High School can handle more students without overcrowding.

Long-Term Vision

‍The project is part of East End’s broader push to modernize its facilities district-wide, with plans to address other buildings in the future.

Originally reported by Mike Kennedy in ASU MAG.