by Mari Radtke
Modernization in necessary for growth. In an education system growth is measured as much by the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) of its graduates as it is by the student body count. Since 2020 all of the South O’Brien School Boards have strategized what KSAs are most beneficial to South O’Brien graduates and how to deliver those KSAs to the student body.
South O’Brien offers a range of courses and programs, appealing to many student skill sets. But the world and workforce needs are changing.

Armed with many hours of research and discovery the South O’Brien School Board in 2023 introduced the public to its vision of the next generation or two of educational facilities for South O’Brien. The result was a BHAG – a Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal. It included some heartbreaking conclusions. The 1920s era high school cannot be saved. There was a lot of effort and study and cost/benefit analysis trying to keep the building. Eventually, the reality that the building could not be saved took hold with the board members.
Overall project highlights include the north annex, currently serving as the FFA and industrial arts classrooms and shops will be converted to a district administrative building. The JH/HS complex will be reoriented. It’s main entry and the JH/HS administrative offices will be located on the south side of the building. A pair of building projects will give dedicated space for hands-on shop class space – industrial arts, construction trades, agriculture for initially planned uses will be built on that south west side. A new gymnasium featuring two competition sized gyms will rise on the west with nearby fitness space. That space will also be open to the public on a restricted basis. Multi-use rooms with science labs is planned for the northwest corner of the building. More concrete parking will make accessibility more accommodating. Several repair projects are part of the overall upgrades.
A new stage, more accurately, a reborn stage is being renovated in Primghar. Wiring, flooring, lighting – all the needs for a first class performance stage is underway at the elementary building in Primghar.
Since the 1990s, the best the district’s facilities received are immediate needs. The recent school boards developed well thought out, well researched plans supported by higher education and job market needs. The public responded. The bond was passed overwhelmingly on a rare first vote effort. South O’Brien School District will evolve to a 21st century educational facility over the next 3-4 years as a result.
Watch the entire ceremony at belltimescourier.com.