Road to Construction

What started as a dream in the Ritenour School District decades ago has now become a reality. Generations of Ritenour families have anticipated the new Ritenour Auditorium and classroom addition since the 1940’s. Funded by the Proposition K Bond Issue, the facility stands as a tribute to the citizens of Ritenour, who overwhelmingly passed the ballot measure in 2008.

The new Ritenour Auditorium and Classroom Addition is an outstanding high school performing arts and educational facility. It is constructed to the highest standards of environmental sustainability to ensure a healthy environment for learning and enjoyment. The 81,000 square foot addition features a 791-seat auditorium, classrooms for band, choir, drama and orchestra use and a student art exhibit area. It also includes a new music technology classroom, large instrument storage areas, multiple solo and ensemble practice rooms and rehearsal spaces.   Construction Timeline
The Ritenour High School Auditorium…a facility more than 65 years in the making

Aug. 13, 1945 – The dream begins! The Ritenour Alumni Association presents a plan to the Ritenour Board of Education to raise money to build a new auditorium on the high school site. The Association fell short of its goal and instead erected a memorial to those who lost their lives in the military, which now stands in front of the high school.

Oct. 24, 1967 – A bond issue is passed by Ritenour residents for further expansion of the high school, including an auditorium. Unfortunately, the funds were insufficient to build an auditorium.

Nov. 4, 2008 – Ritenour residents approve the Proposition K Bond issue with 64.85 percent of the vote. The bond issue includes funding for a new auditorium at Ritenour High School.

June 1, 2009 – Ritenour officially breaks ground on the new auditorium and classroom addition. Construction begins shortly thereafter.

Nov. 2009 – Phase 1 of the construction was officially completed – including additional parking, water detention and sewer work, utility relocation, street improvements, a new service road.

Oct. 6, 2011 – The “Green Roof” is installed on top of the building.

Jan. 3, 2012 – Students and staff officially move into the new classroom addition.

Feb. 18, 2012 – New Ritenour Auditorium & Classroom Addition officially dedicated.