The sun beams brightly on North Mac High School’s beautiful new entrance. The large glass doors and windows welcome students into a freshly designed facility with bold character reminders painted on the wall — from “exceptional” to “respectful.”
The North Mac district has locations in both Virden and Girard, Illinois, and serves approximately 1,600 students ranging from PreK to 12th grade spread throughout three different buildings.
Recently, North Mac underwent construction of their new high school and later added a robust athletic complex complete with new turf football and baseball fields. The overall district budget was $21.7 million.
In the new high school, the science department now has four new labs for students to participate in experiential, hands-on learning. The school’s consumer science lab was moved from the basement of the 1923 high school building, and the theatre program received new lighting, sound system and stage renovation.
The administration area has now been consolidated at the main door into a stunning front office, complete with a secure entrance and new meeting space. Soothing blues are found in the renovated spaces, from modern library furniture to the innovative science labs.
The Board of Education’s commitment to improving the district is not complete. The final phase of the high school project includes a new performance gymnasium, indoor track, band room and weight room.
The newly renovated spaces and future plans better position North Mac to carry out its educational mission of promoting self-directed learners, collaborative workers, complex thinkers, and community contributors for decades to come.