Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Completion May Be Mid-July; Building Will Have Changes

Last April 1, Prescott High School burned.

The fire destroyed the foyer, offices and a couple of computer labs. The auditorium was damaged, while smoke caused problems throughout the rest of the structure.

Since the fire, PHS officials have been working to get the school rebuilt. There have been some problems with the insurance carrier, USF&G, but Superintendent Don Johnston said the district is working with them to get the claims paid.

And, when work at the high school is finished, area residents will notice some changes.

Johnston said a trophy case will be added to the foyer area, to display the hardware the championship teams are continually bringing to Prescott from their athletic endeavors.

The office area will be changed somewhat. The principal's office will be moved toward the front with a window added, so Tommy Morrison can observe traffic in the foyer between classes to make sure there are no problems.

A vault is being constructed, complete with a combination lock and solid steel vault door. This will help protect records in case the worst happens again and another fire occurs.

At this time, most of the section of the building burned is in the dry. The roofing work should be completed by the end of this week, depending on the weather.

Sheetrock has been hung in the damaged computer labs, which will see some changes as well. Johnston said the computer rooms will have windows installed, and computer benches will be added along the walls to make it easier for everyone involved with these labs.

While the auditorium is still messy because of the construction work, Johnston said two dressing rooms have been built for the performers during plays and other performances.

Getting the seats back in place will be a chore, Johnston said.

Additionally, a door has been added between the stage and band room. This will make it easier for band members to file on stage when they play.

The walls and floors in the foyer will be smooth coated, Johnston said, to cover the damage left by the fire.

And, the good news, he said, is the deadline for getting the work completed is mid-July or early August.

Then, the students can return to PHS for their high school classes, and the public will have something else it can brag about.