New Dakota Valley High School wows in first year

A new principal filled in for former principal Jerry Rasmussen, who assumed the role of superintendent. Erik Sommervold's first year on the job just happened to be in Dakota Valley's brand new $27 million facility.

The school opened this year after much anticipation. The ball started rolling when voters in 2014 approved a bond issue, with 84 percent of voters in support of the construction.

Rasmussen, who was principal at the time the vote was passed, declared the vote as "overwhelming" and a "clear mandate" from voters. 

Fast forward two years, and students and staff were finally able to call the new building home. It was built attached to the former high school, which now houses fourth and fifth graders in the district. 

The facility features expanded science labs, consumer science rooms and industrial arts labs as well as a new gymnasium.

Rasmussen said one of the features that sticks out to students and visitors is the atrium that resembles a student lounge similar to those seen in college halls.

"The students love having the college feel when they come in the doors," he said. "A lot of students here from other schools are wowed by the entrance, too."

Rasmussen said the benefit of new industrial arts and family and consumer science programs space has increased student achievement and involvement. 

The new high school serves as the perfect backdrop to Dakota Valley's football stadium and track, which received a facelift in the summer of 2016 as well. 

The family of former IBP inc. executive Robert Peterson donated brand new field turf, valued at $800,000. 

The district also welcomed a $1.6 million renovation to the track. 

When the school opened late last summer, the gymnasium still had a little work left. Rasmussen said after completion, the first athletic event was held Oct. 24. He said both basketball teams have been able to use it for the full season. 

"People are enjoying the space and all the new technology that's come with it," he said.