New facilities in the works at Benton Harbor High School won’t just change the way the school looks. They’ll also change the way students learn.

Part of an educational initiative taking place in Benton Harbor known as New Tech, the high school’s dramatic classroom expansions will allow students to participate in a more collaborative learning style that promotes communication skills, creative and analytical problem-solving, and personal accountability. Each classroom will be able to accommodate up to 56 students and two teachers at a time, creating cross-disciplinary learning opportunities for traditional school subjects.

The project is just one of many projects Skillman will complete in partnership with Benton Harbor Area Schools, which is hopeful New Tech will boost students’ performing and learning. Upgrades have included additions and renovations to the high school and elementary schools as well as district-wide improvements to classroom technology, roofing, windows, HVAC systems, parking lots, secure entrance and athletic facilities.