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WASHINGTON - D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty hoisted a shovel of sand and carried his alma mater, Woodrow Wilson High School, into the future Tuesday.

The mayor and school administrators broke ground on an $85 million school modernization project. Construction will reorganize the campus into academic, athletic and performing arts centers.

To accommodate renovations, Woodrow Wilson High School will shut down next year. During the construction, classes will relocate to building 52 of the University of the District of Columbia.

Students and faculty say moving around isn't ideal but it's worth it in the long run.

There have been sandboxes in school yards but rarely like this. Students, faculty and staff gathered Tuesday to kick off renovations they say are long overdue.

"There are lockers that are messed up; the walls [have graffiti]. I really think we need the renovation," said Jamal Pierre, class of '12.

"It's like a building with a bunch of band aids on it," noted Pete Cahall, the school's principal.

Cahall, who showed off his school spirit with a letter jacket, says investing $85 million in the building translates into an investment in education and an increase in school pride.

"The school environment -- the building -- makes a statement to the kids that this is important," he said.

Renovations include turning an area known as the jail yard into a crossroads courtyard atrium space. The school will get a new cafeteria and a new auditorium, plus two new gymnasiums.

"It's overwhelming knowing that we're going to have these new things," said Pierre.

"I'm looking forward to the end result," added Adia Xaba, class of '13.

But Xaba's not looking forward to classes at UDC. A red brick building will house all Woodrow Wilson classes during the 2010-2011 school year. Wilson should reopen in time for the following fall.

"We do have a strong working relationship with UDC and I expect that to grow even stronger," said Fenty.

"I think it's great and students are going to rise to the occasion," added Cahall.

But parents have some reservations. "I have a few concerns but I honestly believe that the administration, teachers and program are designed to keep them safe," said Pamela Gardner, a parent.

Renovations will being in January, but workers have already started building makeshift classrooms to use after winter break. Building plans aren't finalized so the principal isn't sure exactly what areas will be off limits when but says the improvements will outweigh any inconveniences.

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