A historic high school is poised to become a new campus for St. Augustine’s First Coast Technical College.
Sitting dormant for years, Hastings High School is undergoing renovations to become a workforce training hub that will provide adult career training and continuing education for residents living in the western part of St. Johns County.
Built more than 100 years ago, renovations for the Mediterranean-style building are being funded largely through a $7.5 million federal grant secured by St. Johns County, with matching support from the St. Johns County School District.
Brennan Asplen, superintendent of the St. Johns County School District, told the St. Augustine Record that Sarah Newell, the county’s community redevelopment manager, played a key role in the acquisition of a federal economic development grant being used to rehabilitate the long‑vacant school building.
The building had previously — and briefly — passed into county ownership as a library before returning to hands of the school district, a move aimed at preventing its demolition.
“We didn’t want it torn down,” Asplen said. “It’s one of those solid, old buildings you just don’t want to lose.”
The grant application assisted with the architectural planning and program design and the school district is providing matching funds for the building to operate as an adjunct learning center for First Coast Technical College.
The campus will serve adult learners, particularly residents of Hastings, Palatka and surrounding rural areas who currently travel to St. Augustine for workforce and continuing education programs.
Programs will be funded primarily through federal grants and Pell Grants. Tuition costs will vary depending on student eligibility, income and financial aid status.
“It’s like college,” Asplen said. “We have financial aid, grants and then sometimes students pick up part of the cost.”
The campus will offer career and continuing education programs including GED preparation, cosmetology, medical assistance programs, ESL training, workforce and management training, early childhood education certification and more.
The facility will also provide on-site child care.
“We really wanted something where adults could drop their kids off while they’re in class,” Asplen said. “They’re getting certified, and their kids are being cared for. It’s a win-win.”
Sidestepping demolition was key in the decision to refurbish the building’s foundation, its clay tile roof, windows, original flooring, its thick wooden staircases, a central foyer, a full auditorium with a wooden stage and a balcony overlooking the stage.
“When you enter the front, there’s this foyer area and these two massive staircases going up to the left and right,” Asplen said. “It’s 1924 handiwork — big, thick wood — and we’re trying to preserve all of that. It’s just beautiful.”
The current phase of funding covers renovation of the first floor only, which will house classrooms, offices, a common area, kitchen facilities and the restored auditorium. The auditorium is expected to serve not only students, but also the wider community.
Asplen said that the space also has the potential to be rented for public events.
Construction is also underway on a 20,000-square-foot training facility behind the high school. The space will be divided between diesel mechanics for cars, trucks and buses and the study of alternative energy sources for agriculture, including solar energy and the use of drones. 2029 is the target date for completion.
Asplen expects the facility to open to students and the public in January 2027, following furniture installation, equipment setup and operational readiness.
Asplen said that the community response has been overwhelming. Residents see the project as an “educational investment and a catalyst for economic and social renewal for revitalizing Main Street.”
“They’re rejuvenating the whole area,” he said. “Businesses are reopening, spaces are being leased and people are just so excited.”
Construction is expected to be completed in August. While the second floor remains as is, its reconstruction is in the long-term plan.
“This really is life-changing,” Asplen said. “It gives people opportunity — without having to leave their community.”
This article originally appeared on St. Augustine Record: Historic Hastings High School is becoming a technical college campus
Reporting by Lucia Viti, St. Augustine Record / St. Augustine Record
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
