ST. CHARLES – It’s an exciting day here at Francis Howell North as the high school kicks off its first day of school in it’s brand-new, state-of-the-art building on Hackmann Road.
The original building was built in 1983 and is currently being demolished, wall by wall.
Construction on the building students will be walking into for classes today began back in 2021. After years of planning and construction, this 410-thousand-square-foot facility is ready to welcome students.
The new building came with a price tag much higher than originally planned, totaling up to $164.7 million, which is almost double the initial estimate. The project was a part of a $244 million bond issue that was approved by voters in June 2020.
The building features a variety of additions, including a culinary arts wing, an e-sports room, extra wrestling space, and a robotics lab. There’s also a storm shelter that doubles as a school auditorium—built with safety in mind after the tragic 2011 Joplin tornado.
With reinforced walls and a concrete ceiling, this shelter can withstand winds up to 250 miles per hour, providing a safe space for students and staff. The new building also boasts spaces for theater, music, and drama, along with a large gym and foyer area.
Francis Howell Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Roumpos says the school isn’t just about a new look—it’s an investment in the future of students and the community.
In addition to all the excitement for Tuesday being the first day of school, there will be a ribbon cutting on Saturday at 2 p.m., marking the grand opening of the new high school.
The event is being dubbed ‘Black and Gold Day’. It will begin with student-led tours followed by food, games and performances from 4 to 8 p.m.
