DURANT, OK -- Construction is already underway on the new Durant High School. And as of Monday night, the contract with the construction company has been finalized.

That decision paves the way for starting contract negotiations with other companies for electrical work, masonry, plumbing, and other services. And it comes after the quick sale of the sales tax bonds last week.

Superintendent Jason Simeroth says the school, which is being built on Highway 75 on the north side of town, will have an innovative design.

The 35 million dollar new school will be paid for by a 5/8th cent sales tax over 25 years. That sales tax was approved by voters in the spring.

"This is just like a Christmas present to us. The community, the administrators and the teachers association have worked so hard and waited so long for this actual day," said Simeroth.

Middle school students will move into the old high school building. The new high school should be completed in 18 months, with room for an expanding student population.

This year, Durant has it's highest population ever-- 3,360 stuents.