Within weeks of the devastating storm that destroyed both Joplin High School and Franklin Technology Center and three other schools, a team made up of staff, students, parents, community members, business leaders, and education experts came together to plan for the new high school and technical school. From these "dream" sessions, a new vision for education in Joplin began to emerge: a comprehensive college, career, and technology focused high school designed to prepare students for a successful life through relevant, real-word experiences. Learn more.
The new school features design elements throughout the space to support this education philosophy:
Designed with a college, career, and technology focus:
- Flexible and collaborative learning spaces throughout the campus
- Windows and glass throughout the building emphasize "learning on display" and allow students to experience various career paths
- Outdoor courtyards designed to accommodate specialized learning activities and support adjacent classroom halls
- Student-run TV station / production area
- Student-run coffee shop and spirit store
- Student-run greenhouse
- 66-seat, student-run restaurant
- Art gallery to showcase student artwork
Designed to encourage student, parent, and community engagement:
- 1,250-seat auditorium
- Black box theater with indoor/outdoor seating
- Choir, band, and orchestra rehearsal halls with sound-isolating practice rooms
- Historic features from the original high school: rose garden, rock, brick eagle
- 2,500-seat gymnasium and two auxiliary gymnasiums
- Expanded athletic complex that includes indoor running track, tennis courts, and practice/competition fields for football, band, soccer, baseball, and softball
- Fields feature synthetic turf for reduced ongoing maintenance costs and lighting to allow for evening practices and games
Designed for safety and efficiency
- Four student/staff safe rooms and one community safe room provide shelter during severe weather
- Finishes and materials that decrease ongoing maintenance costs
- Energy efficiencies such as hydronic HVAC system, LED lighting, rain water harvesting for irrigation, and window placement to maximize natural light