photo by: Contributed

A multi-year renovation of Lawrence High School, 1901 Louisiana St., provided more space and natural lighting into the building. District officials will celebrate the completion of the renovation during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 9.

With the vast majority of Lawrence High School’s multimillion-dollar renovation complete, the school district is ready to unveil it to the community.

District leaders on Saturday will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the school’s $46 million project, which saw most of the historic building renovated.

Cynthia Johnson, who was the school’s interim principal for the majority of the project, recently said the event would also include performances from student groups, such as the school’s band and choir and the district’s step dance team.

“We are really excited to get to this point,” she said about the multiyear project. “We are to the point that we can celebrate.”

The renovation project was a significant part of the $87 million bond issue Lawrence voters approved in 2017. Construction crews broke ground in 2019 and wrapped up the vast majority before school began in August.

Along with adding space for renovated classrooms and study areas, the project also provided a modern feel to the building by adding more natural light and open spaces, among other upgrades. An outdoor mural highlighting the school’s diversity and history also gives a vibrant look to the building.

Visitors may be able to leave the event with some memorabilia recognizing the renovation. Johnson said the spray paint cans used to make the mural have been turned into keepsakes and signed by the artist, Sike Style. She said they would be raffled off to guests during the event.

“You’re going to walk out with a piece of history (that’s) one of a kind,” she said.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. at the school, 1901 Louisiana St. Tours of the renovated building will take place at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.