Like the phoenix, East Union High has risen several times from the ashes.

Principal Eric Simoni referenced the mythical bird during Wednesday ribbon-cutting of the modernized campus, noting that the original elementary school for which the high school campus was named was once located down the road near Louise Avenue.

“It burned down (years ago),” he said.

The high school campus on 1700 N. Union Road was built in the early 1970s and had seen better days up until recently. Thanks to the support of voters – a portion of Measure G and Measure A bonds – EU was part of a larger $65 million modernization effort.

Simoni said that completing the two-story classroom/media center featuring a student common area and outdoor learning space was “a mad dash” prior to the start of this school year.

The crew of CT Brayton & Sons handled the construction of this project.

Those attending the special event had a chance to see the completed work on campus. Included is the new small gym, aerobics / wrestling room, weight room, a fully-equipped agricultural center, and an upgraded athletic stadium.

The stadium and ag center were among the first to be finished in the modernization plans.

Student board member Annette DuBois opened the ceremony by welcoming those in attendance. She and her fellow students are thrilled with the many new amenities of the school – included is a senior court with legacy bricks.

Superintendent Clark Burke pointed towards the at the L-building, as referred to on the self-guided tour map. “The new building speaks for itself,” he said.

MUSD board President Stephen Schluer added: “The (modernization) is not just a celebration but a renewed commitment to our youth.”

Those who viewed the new modernized campus were wowed by the transformation.

Simoni harkened back to the phoenix – which is also on the school shield and the name of the school yearbook – mentioning, “we may fall only to brush off the dust – but we will always rise.”