Emerson unveils remodel

Students and teachers at Emerson Alternative High School are celebrating the completion of their $2.1 million renovation.

The kids used to call it the “Ghetto School,” but after the remodel, they say their outlook has changed.

Student Joseph Muffler stated, “They aren’t going to feel so down, they’re not going to be so ashamed to say that they go to Emerson I guess. And that’s a really good thing.”

Principal Robin Busch agreed that alternative schools get a bad rap, and said “And they know they wanted to change because sometimes alternative students are viewed as problems.”

Since the school was built in the 1920’s, it didn’t have proper heating or air conditioning, however they now have an effective heating and air conditioning system. They are also one of the first schools in District 91 to have LED lights.

Despite all the modern touches, they were careful to leave historical features in place.

Alina Cookmarthis, a student, said of the remodel, “It’s going to help the morale of the students. Cause actually they’re going to feel that money is being put towards their education, they’re not just forgotten about their not just troubled kids.”

The public is invited to see the finished project November 9th.