After an extensive summer renovation, Mid-Prairie High School students kick off the 2011-2012 school year in their new building.  The $5.5 million project brings updated classrooms and offices, and also a new geothermal heating and cooling system.

Superintendent Mark Schneider says he’s thankful for the district’s custodial staff, which has spent the last two weeks preparing the building for students.

He adds this year’s start date is a little later than usual, but the delay was part of the plan to give contractors ample time to complete the renovations.