Modernization at HBHS

By: Ilyse Liffreing

Remember how our school just celebrated its 100th anniversary? Well, as a result, a lot of new construction or “modernization” is now taking place that will bring our school into the new era and not appear as ancient as it truly is. This construction is a milestone in Huntington Beach High School’s history because it will pave the way for new achievements and more to be proud of. Although students will have to put up with the restrictions the modernization process brings as it is taking place, the end result will be a worthwhile and effective one. Never before has our high school had so much “new” at one time. It’s exciting at the same time as distressing in that it’s hard to wait for the results to be brought to our attention. For, as you can see, a gate is surrounding part of our school and our beautiful theatre, which is now being refurbished.

Nevertheless, I have taken the opportunity to look inside the new additions being made to our school and I’m here with both an outline and pictures for those of you who are interested in what will take place shortly. Having seen such highlights in the present construction occurring on our campus, I am sure the student body will be both impressed and anxious for everything to unfold.

In order to tour the new construction properly, I was assisted by Mr. Crook and Mr. Ross, the AP of Activities and the AP of Supervision. They were both eager in showing off what is underway here at Huntington.

I asked Mr. Crook straight-off what exactly was being done to the school and when it was expected to be finished because I have heard previous estimates and opinions, but I thought everyone should know for sure. I was informed that everything was to be completed in the October of 2009. And although that is only a ballpark estimate, the student body should be sufficed, especially when one recognizes how much is actually being refurbished, destroyed, and made completely brand new.

Next, I asked “what good is it going to do for the school?” He replied, “It’s going to bring everything up to modern standards. Everything is getting a face lift!” This is apparently true from all the pictures I acquired. Being very curious, I asked him what exactly was being improved and he answered with, “the classrooms are being updated-14 new ones in total, new technology is being added, the theatre is being refurbished, the gym is getting new locker rooms and bathrooms, and everything is being revamped.” This, he explained, is being done in phases- a five year plan ever since 2004.

Clearly, the construction taking place at our school will modernize our campus and let it see many more centuries of improvements and achievements.



Hail, Hail, to Huntington,

Thy Pillars noble and strong,

Like spires that rise to vaulted skies,

We raise our loyal song.

Ne’er can thy spirit die;

Nor ever can thy walls decay,

So give a hail, hail to Huntington

Thy glory shall not fade away.