Diamond on an aluminum ring

Noblesville’s new wing deserves a matching campus

By ALEXANDER WEBSTER
Guest Columnist

Noblesville Schools just opened its new $42 million expansion and renovations at Noblesville High School.

My time at the high school ended back in May 2025 when I graduated. My junior and senior years were filled with not-so-subtle construction noise, workers walking through the halls, and, on occasion, the entire English and history wings shaking. While I do think this is the right step for Noblesville Schools, it isn’t enough – it’s just one step in a race to compete with the other schools in the county.

Thursday night, when I toured the new expansion during the public open house, I couldn’t help but notice how much the new section stands out from the rest of the school – you wouldn’t even believe you’re in the same building. Almost every classroom has windows to either the central open space or the outside. There’s stair seating ripped straight out of High School Musical, in-house trade programs like welding, an open-space café for upperclassmen, and a slick, modern design that should foster a stronger educational experience. But as impressive as the new section is, it also highlights just how outdated the rest of the school still feels.

Reporter photo by Alexander Webster

Now, don’t get me wrong – I truly love what Noblesville Schools has done with the expansion. But right now, it feels like a four-carat diamond on an aluminum ring. The rest of the campus needs to be brought up to even half the standard of the new wing. That means replacing the outdated green windows and accents, expanding open areas, and making better use of the courtyards. The school also deserves a stadium that matches the talent of its amazing soccer program and more space for its nationally ranked color guard.

And above all, future upgrades should support all departments – not just STEM or trades. The main cafeteria, for example, could feel more like a welcoming shared space and less like a prison. No student should feel left behind just because their interests don’t align with the school’s current priorities.

I truly love Noblesville Schools and am proud to be an alum. But I want them to be not just on par with the rest of the county – I want them to rise above the rest and be a shining house on a hill.

Last week, Alexander Webster finished his summer internship with The Hamilton County Reporter and heads to college this week.

Reporter photos by Alexander Webster