Bridgeport officials celebrated the opening of the city’s first new high school built in 50 years Monday.
A part of the district’s efforts to turnaround its failing schools, the Fairchild Wheeler Interdistrict Magnet Campus is one of five new schools to open under the direction of Bridgeport Superintendent Paul Vallas.
Curriculum at the $125 million school will include emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math.
Following the state’s recent push to generate more college graduates with STEM degrees, city officials say the school will prepare students for possible careers in areas such as information technology, biotechnology and aerospace engineering.
Now the state’s most environmentally friendly school, the campus includes 10 wind turbines, solar panels and a green roof design.
The first two classes of students will begin courses Aug. 28. About 70 percent of students will come from Bridgeport, while the reminder will come from Trumbull, Fairfield, Shelton, Stratford and other surrounding towns. About 1,500 students will attend the school once it reaches full capacity.
Like other schools in the district, students will also be able to receive college credit at partnered universities.
Below is a virtual tour of the campus, courtesy of the city of Bridgeport.
