PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — Bethel High School in Pierce County opened its doors to students on Monday, marking the debut of a new 300,000-square-foot educational facility after nearly 20 years of planning.
The school, which serves more than 1,800 enrolled students, includes expanded classrooms and specialized learning spaces designed for both traditional academics and hands-on technical training.
The new campus was made possible after voters approved a $443 million school construction bond in 2019, turning plans that originated in the early 2000s into a completed facility.
Doug Boyles, communication director for the Bethel School District, highlighted the community effort behind the project.
“This is really what happens when the community stands up for its kids,” Boyles said. “It’s been exciting watching the construction over the years and this has been a dream since the early 2000s.”
The 300,000-square-foot facility features a 550-seat theater for performances, a bistro-style cafeteria, a new gymnasium for physical education classes and sports practices, as well as dedicated spaces for technical education, including a welding shop and culinary rooms.
Matt Mikolas, an engineering teacher at the school, noted that the specialized spaces allow students to gain practical skills whether they plan to pursue a four-year college degree or enter technical careers.
Students in the Class of 2027 celebrated the opening by participating in a “Senior Sunrise” event on their first day at the new campus.
Marcus Sopi, a senior student at Bethel High School, expressed enthusiasm for the new facilities.
“I’m excited for the football games, pep assemblies, our new gym is so big there’s so much opportunity we have to change traditions here,” Sopi said.
The 2019 construction bond will also fund renovations and upgrades at other district facilities.
Cedarcrest Middle School is expected to open in fall 2028 as part of the broader district improvements.
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