In a proud moment of celebration and tradition, Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD (PBTISD) marked a major milestone in the transformation of Pecos High School with a ceremonial beam topping for the new Academic Wing. The event, held on Tuesday, April 8, brought together school officials, students, staff, community members, construction partners, and local leaders to commemorate the placement of the final steel beam in the structure.
Superintendent of Schools Brent Jaco led the celebration, addressing attendees with a message that honored the hard work, vision, and collaboration that brought the project to this pivotal point.
“Today is a great day to be an Eagle,” said Superintendent Jaco. “This final beam doesn’t just mark the progress of construction—it symbolizes our belief in the potential of every student who walks through the doors of Pecos High School. It represents our commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and building a future that our community can be proud of.”
The new three-story Academic Wing, which is part of the district’s ongoing 2023 bond-funded renovations, will serve as a central hub of learning, discovery, and connection for students and staff. Highlights of the facility include:
A modern, centralized library accessible from both the second and third floors, designed for collaboration and research
Flexible “Exchange and Think” Spaces to foster innovation and student engagement
An updated cafeteria, complete with a performance platform
Sky bridges connecting the Academic Wing to the Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Science Wing, as well as the Athletic Facilities and Natatorium
Superintendent Jaco emphasized the intentional design of the facility, created in partnership with teachers, staff, and students to ensure it reflects the evolving needs of education.
“This isn’t just about adding more classrooms,” he said. “This is about creating a space where students can grow, question, and challenge themselves—and where teachers can teach, lead, and inspire.”
The topping-out tradition featured three symbolic elements raised with the final beam. An evergreen tree—a long-standing construction tradition representing growth, good fortune, and safety on the job site. An American flag—signifying national pride and a custom rooted in steelwork history. Last, a Pecos Eagle flag—representing the spirit, pride, and unity of the Pecos community.
These symbols served as a tribute to the dedication of the many tradespeople, partners, and stakeholders who have brought the vision to life. Superintendent Jaco gave special thanks to the district’s School Board of Trustees, VLK Architects, BTC construction management team, and all local supporters who have contributed to the progress.
“Our Board of Trustees has remained steadfast in their commitment to building better learning environments for our students,” said Jaco. “And our partners at VLK Architects and BTC have helped us design and construct spaces that reflect the future of education. We are grateful to everyone—our teachers, staff, students, and community—who provided input and supported this journey.”
As attendees signed the final beam before its ascent, they left behind personal marks that will become a permanent part of the campus structure. Superintendent Jaco concluded with a message of hope and pride:
The new Academic Wing is set to open for students in the 2026-2027 school year, continuing the district’s vision of “Inspiring and Empowering for Excellence.”
To watch an animation of the new PHS, please visit here.