School officials have been quick to act upon the announcement of the passed millage vote. During the first week of February, various groups of faculty and students took tours through area schools. EAST facilitator, Jill Sanders, along with two individual groups of EAST students were amongst those granted with the opportunity to collect information from seven of these schools.

“We went with the purpose of learning about the building design so that we could learn from the positives and negatives that other districts have experienced,” Sanders said. “We were especially trying to learn about addressing the use of technology.” 

A series of different positive emotions were experienced as they walked through the modern, updated buildings. Many were overwhelmed by a rush of excitement and anticipation.

“After seeing the way other schools are set up, I think there are just so many possibilities as to what the new school could hold,” junior Kensie Walker said.

Each facility had their own unique aspects, but none were short to impress.

“My favorite school that we visited was GCT High School,” senior Jessica Krob said. “I was really impressed with the layout of the science classrooms. I also liked their library a lot. It was very large and there was a lot of space for students to work individually and on group projects. I’m glad that I got the opportunity to tour the different schools and get ideas for BIC’s new school.” 

Not only will the new school provide space and open new learning opportunities for students, but it will also be safer. Safety is one of the main concerns and priorities in the building process.

“I was impressed with safety features of buildings such as a feature to lock down every hallway with a push of a button in the principal’s office at Manila elementary,” Sanders said.

The tours were successful in installing ideas and a spark of creativity within students and faculty members.