Hot Springs looks toward new beginnings with demolition of former high school

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – The demolition of the historic Hot Springs High School is underway, marking the end of an era for generations of students who once walked its halls. 

Construction crews have started tearing down the 57-year-old campus as part of a major redevelopment project to make room for the state-of-the-art, Hot Springs World Class High School.

The $37.8 million investment is scheduled for completion in Fall 2025. The project is funded through a $29.5 million second-lien bond, approved by the school district, as well as additional district funds. 

The new 140,000-square-foot, three-story building will feature a multipurpose gym, tennis courts, and soccer fields — all designed to reflect the modern needs of students and teachers. 

For many, the demolition is both exciting and emotional. 

“It was bittersweet,” said Ahnecia Thompson, Class of 2018. “I was also happy that we’re upgrading the Hot Spring. We deserve that. We deserve new things.”

Thompson is part of a long line of graduates. For her and many others, Hot Springs High School has been part of their families for generations. 

“We’re all devastated,” Thompson said. “It’s very sad. We don’t understand why our school has to go. If we could make it stay here. We will let it stay.” 

Dylan Robinson, Class of 2021, shared similar emotions but emphasized the importance of providing a fresh start for future students. 

“Having a new environment for kids to learn in…. after walking through that school the last time they did the walk-through, it was honestly depressing,” Robinson said.

On June 7, Hot Springs High School held a farewell event, where attendees shared memories, took photos, and collected small keepsakes from the building.