MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Demolition is now underway on the former Mitchell High School building, marking the end of a decades-long chapter in the community’s history.

Crews began tearing down the 64-year-old structure today. The building, originally constructed in 1962, has remained vacant since the opening of the new Mitchell High School.

The demolition process is expected to take approximately two weeks and will include on-site recycling of materials as crews work through the structure.

The former high school has long been a familiar landmark in Mitchell, serving generations of students before being replaced by the newer facility in recent years.

City officials are reminding residents to stay clear of the area during demolition for safety reasons, as heavy equipment and debris removal operations will be ongoing throughout the project.

The teardown represents a significant transition for the site, as the community moves forward while saying goodbye to a building that held decades of memories for students, staff, and families.