When you walk through the halls of the new Woodstock North High School, you can’t help but feel energized by the natural light coming in through the classroom windows, cutting edge technology and open courtyards.

More than five years of planning and hard work have produced the most efficient learning environment. The students, parents and community neighbors are equally engaged. They are not only impressed with the facility itself but the staff that energizes it as well.

"Students who are excited and engaged about school have proved to have higher levels of competency."

“The students are enthused that they have a brand-new, state-of-the-art building in which to learn,” said Brian McAdow, principal. “More importantly, they were challenged and had a say in its initial direction and character. The first incoming freshman and sophomore classes provided input regarding school colors and name, clubs and committees.”

By being active participants, the students have been bestowed with a great responsibility. They had the good fortune to be able to set standards and character that will define the school for many generations to come.

“Very few students have this type of opportunity,” said McAdow. “Students who are excited and engaged about school have proved to have higher levels of competency.” The school opened in September 2008 with only a freshman and sophomore class. In 2010, a full four-year school will be up and running.

Situated on 80 acres, the new Woodstock North High School includes pristine science, art and computer labs, a 600-seat auditorium, competition and auxiliary gyms, an eight-lane Olympic-sized swimming pool, a comprehensive outdoor athletic complex and a host of technological learning resources.

“Our number one goal was to have our school develop in such a way that on the first day of the first session, all students and faculty had a sense of community and school pride,” said McAdow. “It was a tough job, but we achieved it. It was a grand team effort by the superintendant, parents, community, faculty and students. You can feel the positive energy.”