(Orient) Preparations for the transition and repurposing of the O-M campus are moving forward in Orient. A dedicated committee has been formed under the umbrella of the Orient Area Betterment and Improvement Corporation (OABIC) to work with the O-M School Board and the City of Orient to support a thoughtful transition and long-term success for the campus. The effort aims to preserve the property while reimagining it as a community-centered events center, community asset, and mixed-use facility.
According to information shared on OABIC’s Facebook page, the committee is developing long-term operational strategies, planning upgrades to serve current and future tenants better, and evaluating operational costs and leasing rates for usable spaces. Members are also working to attract people, events, and businesses to activate the campus and expand its impact within the community.
Demolition of the 1921 three-story school building has begun. Once demolition is complete, the site will be seeded, and additional beautification efforts are being planned to improve the grounds’ appearance and usability. The contractor and OABIC are working to salvage bricks from the former structure for reuse on campus and for future fundraising efforts, preserving a tangible connection to the school’s history.
To help fund specialty projects, building improvements, and ongoing operations, the committee is preparing to launch a fundraising campaign. Opportunities for stakeholders, alums, community members, and supporters to invest in the facility’s future will be announced in the coming months. Plans include a historic brick campaign that offers supporters the opportunity to purchase a preserved brick for a dedicated space on campus or for personal use. Those interested in receiving early information about pricing and ordering may submit their contact information by emailing oabic@orientiowa.com.
Several areas of the facility are slated for upgrades and enhancements, with space to be leased. Available areas will include office space, former classrooms, event and gymnasium space, the bus barn, and ball fields.
O-M alums and families are also encouraged to stay connected. Alumni, parents of alumni, and those who know former students are invited to share updated contact information, including current name, former student name, graduation year, and email address. Participants will receive project updates in the coming months, invitations to a grand opening celebration, information on special events in Orient, and details about sponsorship and donation opportunities. Communication will be provided through email, the OABIC website, and social media. Information may be submitted to oabic@orientiowa.com.
