HHS building changes could cause confusion

By Ben Austin
Staff Writer
    Today, as the students at Houlton High School sleepily adjust to get back into their regular routine, they may find that they have a slightly more difficult time finding some of their classes.
    It is very typical for seventh grade students at HHS to come into the building, confused and scared, and find themselves lost on the first day. This year, the very same problem could occur with some seniors. The new renovations at the high school, which were scheduled to be wrapping up yesterday, according to HHS administration, have completely changed the area surrounding the English department and superintendent’s office.
    “It looks wonderful. I’m a little worried about if it will be totally finished before Wednesday. They have done a tremendous job, both the custodians and Buildings Etc., in doing such a large project in a short period of time,” said principal Marty Bouchard.
    A few minor parts of the construction were expected to be unfinished for today, according to Bouchard. Peter Chase, of Buildings Etc., explained that some changes in schedule early in the process, as well as small changes to the original plan by the school, have slightly slowed the process, but that overall the project has been very successful.
    “We had figured if we were able to get done within the first two weeks of school we’d be doing fine, and we plan to be done within the week, so it’s gone very well. It’s gone very good. The sub-contractors have been very good to work with and Steve and the rest of his staff has been just fantastic,” said Chase.
    Students who have taken an early look at the remodeled wing have been perplexed by, but impressed with, the change in hallways and rooms, and commonly found themselves momentarily lost within the newly remodeled area.
    “It’s pretty confusing, but I like it,” stated senior Cori Crovo Monday.
    Sophomore Tanner Caron quickly agreed, saying, “It could definitely start some confusion, but other than that, I think the kids will adapt.”
    The current improvements to the school play a role in the $2.5 referendum vote, which goes side by side with the new art center which is scheduled to be built on school grounds in 2009.
    The movement of the main hall, which runs from the lobby and office to the art room, was a recommendation in the accredidation report, made up by the visiting team who came to HHS in March. The main hallway, which used to make three turns to run around the English department, now runs in a straight line through the department, giving a more direct route to the health, shop and art areas as well as to the  superintendent’s office.
    The design, made by architect Jeff Armstrong, is meant create a more efficient use of space and lighting within the school. Walls were torn down, hallways were moved, and aspestos was removed, creating a more healthy, comfortable atmosphere for students.
    “It should be tremendous in terms of upgrades with regards to heating, ventalation, lighting, which are all going to be more efficient, more comfortable, air quality will be better. It should be a benefit to the physic learning capabilities of students,” said Superintendent Steve Fitzpatrick.