The dedication ceremony and open house for the Pike County High School Arts Complex was held Monday afternoon with representatives from the Pike County Board of Education, the City of Brundidge and the community in attendance.

“Students moved into the building several weeks ago and we are excited to have the arts complex open and going full speed,” said Dr. Mark Bazzell, superintendent of Pike County Schools. “The arts complex is going to be a great addition to the school and to the community.”

Bazzell expressed appreciation to the board members for their support of the $1.2 million project.

“I want to thank all of the folks that had a part in this project, including the support staff at the central office,” he said. “Whaley Construction did an excellent job, as did the Godwin Jones architectural firm. We appreciate all of the work that went into the project.”

Bazzell said the lack of adequate space for the school’s music and arts programs drove the project.

“We didn’t have adequate space for a choral music program,” he said. “We offered an art program but didn’t have suitable space for the program. There was no room for a kiln. We didn’t have sinks with running water or tables for the instructional area. And, there was no place for plays and programs. Now, we have space for both the music and choral programs and a stage with seating for about 190.”

The band room had been in the same location for about 30 years. In the new facility, the band room is larger and has storage space, which will be a luxury, Bazzell said.

The front area of the arts complex may be used as a gallery for the students’ artwork.

“This is an outstanding arts complex and it was needed for the students at Pike County High School,” Bazzell said. “There are a lot of kids at PCHS who have potential in the arts. Now, we have a suitable outlet for them to grow their talents.

“Research is clear that participation in the arts transfers to core academic subjects, whether it’s language arts or math. We are excited to see the arts programs at Pike County High School taking off.”