Construction workers could be seen bustling around a small crane in the parking lot west of the theater department on Nov. 21. Their breath could be seen in the air as they looked up at the ascending 36-foot long sign dangling from the edge of the crane. Moments later, the words “West Fargo High School” were clamped onto the building’s West side.
The discussion for the creation of the sign arose earlier this summer at School Board meetings and was later presented to the District Business Manager Mark Lemer.
“School Board members who served on the Planning and Development Committee suggested this based on similar signage in use at the Jamestown High School,” Lemer said.
In addition, hopes of highlighting the new Packer logo was expressed by both Lemer and board member Dave Olson, chairman of the Planning and Development committee.
“Before this sign was decided on, the only sign identifying the building was somewhat tucked away over the front doors,” Olson said. “This area is difficult to see other than when you are in our parking lot and somewhat invisible to especially Ninth Street vehicle and pedestrian traffic.”
Not including electrical bills, this additional cost $6,399 was paid for by using proceeds from the qualified school construction bond.
“This pool of money and one other was also used for building upgrades and additions like our new high school fitness center, lunchroom, and many other construction projects throughout our district,” Olson said.
With high visibility, board members are interested in how the community will respond to it.
“Last night a fellow board member happened to notice it on her way to our board meeting and commented to me how nice it looked and how easily it can be seen,” Olson said. “The more people that focus and participate in our school district the better.”
It is illuminated in the morning and at night, so students who drive to and from school or visitors who come for sporting events can see it while it is dark out. This touch of Packer pride has impressed students, including senior Emily Olson.
“To me, displaying who we are and our logo shows our pride, dedication, support and respect towards being a part of the West Fargo community,” Emily Olson said. “The students and faculty at our school play a huge part in representing who we are, and the sign assures that we are a Packer community.”