Built for future generations

Superintendent Jeff Elstad stood in front of the crowd gathered last week for the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Owatonna High School and smiled.
“This new high school will make Owatonna a better place to live,” said Elstad, adding his thanks to a myriad of organizations, partners, community members and staff who helped bring the project to fruition.
The new $94 million high school, which is now under construction, is part of a $112 million district bond referendum that voters passed in November 2019. 
The district’s business partners, including Federated Insurance, Mayo Clinic Health System, Viracon, Wenger Corporation, Wenger Foundation, and Gopher Sport, donated a combined $22 million to the project – reducing the tax impact for the community by 20%.
“This is a great day for Owatonna,” said Mark Sebring, school board chair. “I’m an Owatonna guy and I’m Owatonna proud…The future is bright for future generations of students and educators.”
Designed by Wold Architects and Engineers, the three-story, 317,000-square-foot high school located on a 90-acre site with parking lots for 890 vehicles, will accommodate1,600 students.
The project also includes a 3,451-seat football stadium, four-court gymnasium, eight tennis courts, four soccer/lacrosse fields, two softball fields, two baseball fields, and a synthetic turf field and full track at the stadium.
“I am grateful for the amazing team of students, staff and community members that partnered with Wold to set our vision that sees all and makes a space for all,” said Principal Kory Kath. “I can absolutely see the progress we are making to see all of our students and ensure that our school building is able to realize their future as well.”
Just before the group began grabbing shovels and lining up for groundbreaking photos, Owatonna Education Association President and teacher Todd Andrix noted that Owatonna, as a community, has a way of keeping education in the forefront. And, he said, OHS staff is committed to continuing its pursuit of excellence in education well into the future.
Construction of the new high school is expected to be completed in the summer of 2023.