Ferndale students, staff settle into new school

New campus designed to promote collaboration, utilize all spaces

By Sarah McCauley Staff Reporter

FERNDALE — As of Jan. 4, Ferndale High School students have become part of a historic moment in any small town: being the first to roam the halls of a brand new high school campus.

Any small town resident knows what a pivotal role the high school plays in its community.

Numerous events, achievements, and memories take place in the halls of that building. So when it comes time to tear down an aging school to make way for a new and improved version, it’s a huge moment.

“I have a saying that schools are the hub of a community. I’ve never felt that to be more true than this building. It really represents a common care and collective by the city of Ferndale and the voters of Ferndale toward their students and staff. And the kids feel it and the staff feel it when they walk in,” Superintendent Kristi Dominguez said.

It can be bittersweet for the community to watch the old school come down, but ultimately, the upgrades are worth the goodbyes.

“I’m like a weird combo of nostalgic and excited,” said Riley Cornelsen, chair of the bond oversight committee.

Cornelsen, who owns his own con-