Honoring Our Past, Building Our Future
Groundbreaking: A New Chapter Begins
We’re gathering as a community to break ground on the new Finneytown 7-12 Middle/High School. This event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Finneytown, one that builds upon the strong foundation laid over six decades ago. As shovels turned the soil, it was more than just a ceremonial act—it was a symbolic gesture of our commitment to excellence, our dedication to future generations, and our unwavering belief in the power of education.
This groundbreaking ceremony was not just a celebration of the physical construction of a new building, but also a celebration of the enduring spirit of Finneytown. The new school is a promise of continued growth, innovation, and success. It is a testament to the community's investment in its young people and a reflection of our shared vision for a brighter future.
We look forward to the opening of this new facility in Summer 2026, knowing that it will serve as a beacon of opportunity and a center of learning for generations to come.
History: A Legacy of Excellence
The history of Finneytown's schools is rich with stories of growth, resilience, and innovation. The journey began long before the first building was constructed. In 1905, a petition was granted to form a Special School District, marking the official establishment of Finneytown's commitment to education. Over the decades, as the community grew, so did the need for more space and better facilities.
In 1958, the doors of Finneytown High School opened, welcoming its first class of ninth graders. This was a significant milestone, as it marked the beginning of a new era in education for our community. The school continued to expand, with additional classrooms, a gymnasium, and a school and community building that housed industrial arts, art, music, and a library. By 1969, the school had grown to include a Performing Arts Center (PAC), completed in 1975, which quickly became a hub for music, theater, and the arts.
The PAC was named after William R. Swartzel, the Finneytown Band Director and Music Chairman who devoted thirty years to the district. Under his guidance, the music program flourished, and Finneytown became synonymous with excellence in the arts. The dramatic and musical productions under the direction of Burt McCollum further solidified the school’s reputation as a leader in arts education.
This legacy of excellence is not just a thing of the past. It continues to influence the decisions we make today as we look to the future of education in Finneytown.
New Building & Design: Building for the Future
The new Finneytown 7-12 Middle/High School, scheduled to open in Fall of 2026, is designed to meet the needs of a modern education while honoring the legacy of our past. This facility will be a place where students can explore their interests, engage in hands-on learning, and prepare for the challenges of the future.
The design of the new building is both functional and inspirational. It includes modern classrooms equipped with the latest technology, flexible learning spaces that encourage collaboration, and dedicated areas for the arts and athletics.
Central to the new building's design is the idea of creating spaces that foster community. The new school will include areas where students, teachers, and community members can come together to learn, create, and celebrate. Whether it's in the classrooms, the gym, or the Performing Arts Center, this new building is designed to be a place where the community can gather and grow together.
Legacy Projects
However, the journey doesn't end with the construction of the new building. As we look to the future, there are still opportunities to enhance and preserve some of the most cherished spaces on our campus. The existing Gym and Performing Arts Center have been central to the Finneytown experience for decades. With your support, these spaces can be renovated and revitalized to continue serving our community for years to come.
To learn how you can support the new building project or the renovation of the Gym and PAC, consider joining the Finneytown Alumni Network as a member or making a one-time contribution. Together, we can build the future!
