Joplin High School to be rebuilt near same spot

JOPLIN, Mo. -- The new Joplin High School will be rebuilt near its original location but on higher ground.

The high school was destroyed in the May 22 tornado.

Superintendent C.J. Huff said the new school will be built on the same property as the old one but will move to higher ground to keep it out of the flood plain. The lower elevation areas will be used for parking or athletic fields.

The Joplin Globe reported that demolition of the old high school is likely to start in three or four weeks. District officials said they hope to select an architect for the new school soon.

Huff has set a goal of rebuilding all school buildings that were destroyed by the tornado within three years.