VISALIA – The first new middle school to be built Visalia in 20 years will get under way with a ceremonial groundbreaking at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23.
 
The new school is made possible by Measure E, the bond that was approved by voters in November 2012. It will be located on the northwest section of Riggin Avenue and Akers Street. The architect is SIM Architects of Fresno and the general contractor is Oral E. Micham, Inc., of Woodlake.
 
The design reflects input provided by families and teachers during a series of meetings last year. The campus will include 24 classrooms in a two-story design; five science labs; a food court and snack bar; a large stage for performing arts; a large central kitchen; a band room and a choir room; a gym with seating for 1,170 people; baseball, softball and soccer fields; and basketball courts.
 
The school will also have a tech lab with a robotics area and broadcast studio, and art labs with a kiln. The library will feature a computer lab.