ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg High School is a landmark: It was the nation’s first $1-million high school when it was originally built in the last century.

  • Entire campus being upgraded
  • It is part of a $32-million project

Nevertheless, after nearly 100 years, it is due for some upgrades and on Monday, school officials will officially start that process with a groundbreaking ceremony.

St. Petersburg High School opened in 1926 and in the years since, it has survived thousands of students passing through its halls, including U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist.

The St. Pete high alum graduated in 1974 and says he is glad the high school is being restored.

The entire campus is being upgraded as part of the $32-million project.

"I'm very happy for the school. I'm very proud of public schools and what they do for our kids here in Florida and I'm especially proud this is happening at my high school. It's one of the oldest in the state. St. Pete High started I think in 1898 but this campus was 1926 so it's very exciting stuff," said the former governor. 

Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)
Rendering of the new St. Pete High School (Courtesy of Pinellas County Schools)