Seniors at Whitefish High School were the first students to enter their new school on Tuesday.

Heavy machinery and construction crews were at work clearing away portions of the old high school, while inside the new school building students and teachers were exploring their fresh digs.

The first day of class was set aside as an orientation for students to become familiar with the new $22.68 million school.

The two-level building centers around the cafeteria on the first floor and the library on the second floor with classroom wings spanning out from those focal points.

The seniors were the first class to walk the halls Tuesday morning. Even with the grogginess of summer break lingering, their excitement of being in the new building was palpable. Students peeked into classrooms with giant sliding glass doors and high-tech smart boards and wandered open spaces filled with natural light from all angles.

A few students stopped at a large window in the upstairs hallway overlooking Big Mountain and the site of the old school building. They tried to figure out where their classrooms used to be among the dirt piles and rubble.

At each stop during orientation, teachers reassured the seniors that all the changes will become easier as the school year goes on.

“You’re the seniors, so you have to lead by example,” Assistant Principal Jackie Fuller reminded the students. “Have fun and enjoy every minute of this year — because it will go fast.”

Construction work continues on the arts and technology wing of the high school. Work is also ongoing for the remodeling of the gym foyer, poetry room, activity director’s office and concessions. 

Work is expected to be completed the beginning of November.