The community got its first official taste of the "new" high school Friday, but Superintendent Marty Hemric hesitates to use the word "new" before Watauga.

"We're the same Watauga High School that began decades ago... and that school is coming into this facility," he said.

The three level structure is, however, complete with a few upgrades, including LEED (Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design) elements that will improve sustainability, energy costs and environmental impact, like geothermal wells (256 on the property) and storm water holding tanks (to reuse gray water to flush toilets).

From solar energy in the science classrooms to lights that dim depending on the sunlight coming through the windows, the school serves as a model for green projects across the country, and that's not all.

The addition of wireless infrastructure and personal laptops mean student learning will reach a global level, literally. After all, the internet puts the world directly in the hands of students.

Additionally, Friday marked the announcement of two grants, vital to the global learning initiative.

The Golden LEAF Foundation has officially awarded $150,000 to support the implementation of technological aspects of the initiative.

The Appalachian Regional Commission awarded $200,000 for global learning.

"These grants will allow us to truly have 21^st century classrooms and teach 21^st century skills to our students," school board member Marsha Walpole said.

The official Watauga High School ribbon cutting happens July 30 at 10am. For your own sneak peak of the new high school, check out the photo album by clicking here.