Coming Soon Pickerington Central Junior High
Pickerington Local Schools Announces Opening of New Pickerington Central Junior High School A Milestone in the District’s Growth
October 28, 2025, Pickerington, OH — Pickerington Local School District is proud to announce the official opening of its newest school building, Pickerington Central Junior High School, on Monday, February 23, 2026, for all staff and students.
The 143,000-square-foot facility, located at 457 Lockville Road, Pickerington, OH 43147, represents a significant step in the district’s long-term strategic initiative focused on four district goals: Academic Excellence, Modern Facilities, Efficient Operations, and being Pillars of the Community.
“The opening of Pickerington Central Junior High School not only marks the addition of a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility—it also underscores our community’s investment in a growing district and our unwavering commitment to student success,” said Superintendent Dr. Charles Smialek.
The new school — replacing the current Ridgeview Junior High School — was designed to accommodate the district’s continued enrollment growth at the junior high level. The existing Ridgeview building has reached its capacity and will be realigned to support growth at the K-6 level to support additional building moves as part of the district’s long-term facilities planning.
“We are so excited about our new chapter,” said Principal Sheila Evans. “Pickerington Central Junior High School is not only a beautiful building but also a step in the right direction for our community to continue to grow, learn, and build upon what was started years ago.”
The building’s design features flexible learning areas, collaborative classrooms, and student-centered spaces that reflect current best practices in education.
Pickerington Local Schools (PLSD) and its Board of Education recognize SHP Architects and Ruscilli Construction for their partnership and expertise, which have been the catalyst in bringing this project to life. Their vision and collaboration continue to shape a learning environment that will serve PLSD students for generations to come.
To celebrate the opening of the new building, the District will host a Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, February 18, at 2:30 p.m., followed by an Open House on Thursday, February 19, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Families, staff, and community members are invited to explore the new building, visit classrooms, and experience the innovative technology designed to support 21st-century learning.
Project Fast Facts
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Anticipated Completion Date: Mid-January 2026
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Size: 143,000 square feet
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Funding: Supported by a $90 million bond levy and $30 million in locally funded initiatives (LFI)
Recent District Projects Include:
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Additions at Pickerington High School North & Central (Completed July 2025)
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Pickerington Early Learning Center (Opened July 2024)
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Pickerington High School Central Stadium (Opened August 2024)
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Turf fields and upgraded bleachers at both high schools
These facility improvements reflect the district’s ongoing work and commitment to creating modern, flexible spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and academic excellence.
“Ridgeview will always be a staple in the hearts of many,” Evans added. “However, as we surge into a new beginning, we welcome the challenges and new ideas that come with this adventure. We can’t wait to get started.”
Pickerington Local Schools serves more than 11,000 students across 16 campuses in Fairfield and Franklin Counties. The District’s long-term strategic initiative focused on four district goals: Academic Excellence, Modern Facilities, Efficient Operations, and being Pillars of the Community — ensuring all students are prepared for success today and into the future.
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