Perry County District 32 unveiled renderings for a reimagined Perryville High School during a presentation Saturday at Robinson Event Center.
The event gave the Perryville community its first look at plans for rebuilding the PHS facility that was devastated by an EF2 tornado on March 14, 2025.
Designed by Sapp Design Architects, the plan involves salvaging and renovating select parts of the existing building and demolishing the rest to construct a new home for PHS on the same footprint.
“We are excited to share these plans after months of thoughtful work behind the scenes,” said Superintendent Dr. Fara Jones. “This vision represents more than rebuilding after the tornado — it reflects our commitment to creating a high school that will serve our students and community well into the future.”
The proposed facility includes:
Streamlined circulation for modern-day safety and accessibility
Updated classrooms built for 21st century learning
The reintegration of special education and art classes into the PHS building, bringing all students under one roof.
Collaborative, multi-use spaces
Performing arts center
Gymnasium addition
High school commons
The Sapp Design team worked closely with a building committee and steering committee made up of District 32 staff and community members to develop the concepts. PHS Principal Shadrick Shafer, who served on both committees, said the proposed design is a facility Perry County can be proud of.
“This proposal is not about excess, and it is not about shortcuts. It is about building a school that is safe, durable, efficient, and designed to serve all students not just today, but for generations to come,” Shafer said. “It reflects careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars while making sure our students have access to the learning environments and opportunities they need to be successful in a rapidly changing world. That balance of pride and practicality is the hallmark of Perry County, and it has been embedded in this project from the ground up.”
Proposition KIDS added to April Ballot
Funding for the proposed project will be contingent on the passage of Proposition KIDS (Keep Improving District Schools) during the April 7 general election. Prop KIDS is a ballot measure recently approved by the District 32 Board of Education that will ask voters to approve a $0.41 cent tax increase, which would generate $52.5 million to support the project.
While a fall 2025 community survey showed nearly half of respondents would support a $0.49 tax increase, the District 32 Board partnered with architects to design a modern PHS facility that meets all needs with less impact on taxpayers.
The District will also contribute proceeds from its insurance settlement to help fund the project. District 32 has applied for disaster assistance through FEMA, but any funding awarded by FEMA would come as a reimbursement after the project is completed.