Breakfast and lunch at Conestoga Jr./Sr. High School has been looking quite different this past month.

In 2024, the bond for the school was approved for an expansion of the school. Construction started in the spring of 2025 and is projected to finish in August of 2026. The atmosphere at school has been abnormal and interesting to adapt to but the students have done very well with the construction.

As there is random construction, plywood, new portable classrooms, and loud noises occasionally, there have been some new ways of learning.

Students are still adjusting to the new lunchroom set up in the commons, and the transition has not been easy.

The new space is designed to give students more room and since the former kitchen has been demolished for construction of a new space, many say it has come with challenges. The noise level has also increased, making it difficult to have conversations.

“It’s a lot more crowded than I expected,” freshman Emme P said. “Sometimes I just walk around trying to find somewhere to go.”

Teachers and staff have noticed the adjustment as well. Some say students are still learning how to move through space and manage their time. Lines for food can get longer, and the open layout can feel overwhelming.

Despite the difficulties, school officials believe the commons will improve over time. They expect students to become more comfortable as they get used to the new system.

For now, many students are still figuring it out day by day.

While the change has been challenging, most agree it is just a matter of getting used to something new.