Excitement Builds As $40M Renovation Nears Completion At Pikesville High School

PIKESVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- She's never been a high school principal before, but in less than a year, she's transforming the Pikesville High School in Baltimore County and the lives of other students.

Ron Matz reports on the dawning of a new day at one of Baltimore County's oldest public schools.

Excitement is building at Pikesville High as the $40 million renovation project near completion.

"This is a very 21st century building. It has the same story and history to it as it had for 50-plus years. But now, there's more tech to it," said senior Eli Fastow.

"I remember at one point, we were in trailers. It wasn't a lot of fun, we were cramped, but now we have this amazing space," said Hannah Lobell, senior.

But it's the new principal, Sandra Reid, who's making all the difference.

"It was a school in progress when I got here. We had renovations that were going on that are almost complete now with the exception of our auditorium and cafeteria," said Reid. "And I've worked arduously to bring about some of the changes that the faculty and staff have asked for -- more spirit, more academic programs, enhanced opportunities for students."

Connections are clearly being made.

"Pikesville has really changed a lot, and I think it's changed for the better. In the past, the student didn't really feel connected to the administrators. But since Ms. Reid has come, she's always in the hallways. She has a personal relationship with most of the students, which I really enjoy," senior Janna H. Johnson said.

"Coming in as a new leader was challenging. People have to get to know you, you have to build trust, relationships and connections -- all those things that are vital for a school to thrive," said Reid.

Pikesville's STEM program is transforming lives.

"I've been an artist all my life. I do multimedia arts, and this opened my eyes to the digital side. It really got me interested in technology and STEM," said Lobell.

She's only been there for eight months, but already, Sandra Reid has been named Baltimore County High School Principal of the Year.

"I was overwhelmed by the award. I'm really honored. I was really shocked. I've been overwhelmed by the outpouring of congratulations," said Reid.

Pikesville High opened in 1964.

Sandra Reid has worked in the Baltimore County school system for 25 years. Prior to coming to Pikesville, she was principal at Pine Grove Middle School in Parkville for eight years.