PHOENIX, Ore. – Phoenix High School’s class of 2025 will get to start the next school year on a brand-new campus.

Superintendent Brent Barry says one of the most notable features in the two-story building is the natural light, something the previous building was lacking.

“Most of the classrooms did not have windows,” Barry said “Like less than 30% of the classrooms actually had windows. So, it was just literally cinderblock classrooms and not the most enriching learning environment. This has natural light coming from every direction and beautiful views.”

The building also has a kitchen, broadcast lab and metal shop for career education.

Barry says this year’s seniors will get a chance to enjoy the space before they graduate.

“You know, we just didn't know if that would be possible not too long ago,” Barry said. “It's not going to be the same traditional experience in the spring as it would be for a senior, but they will be able to enjoy the new space and be the first graduating class out of this new building.”

The district has about 700 high school students enrolled, but the building is designed to accommodate 1,100.

After last year’s September wildfires, Barry says the new high school will provide hope to the community.

“When the time comes to celebrate this new space and really have community events to where we can gather, it's going to be kind of a landmark and something that's here for many years to come for this community,” Barry said.

Barry says they started planning the new high school about five years ago.

The community approved a school bond to fund the project in November 2017.

Barry says construction crews are working on the finishing touches and the high school is expected to be finished this summer.