OGDEN — The David O. McKay Education Building is undergoing a transformation that Weber State University is hoping will bring it into the present.

Over the coming year, the building, which was built in 1972, will be renovated in its entirety.

According to a press release from WSU, the project will include several elements.

“The renovation will … focus on creating more space for collaboration, including a digital media production lab and a makerspace called the Fabrication Lab,” the release said. “These rooms will provide tools for creating lesson plans and class materials.”

The project will also include additional classrooms, study space and the installation of solar panels.

“The Melba S. Lehner Children’s School, which is housed in the McKay Education Building, will receive a redesign to improve accessibility and student safety,” the release continued. “New designated secure access for the Children’s School will increase security for both kids and their families.”

The full project is estimated to cost $47.6 million, according to Rachel Badali, news coordinator with WSU’s Marketing and Communications Department. Construction, which began last month, is anticipated to wrap up in December 2024.

Bryan Magaña, WSU public relations director, told the Standard-Examiner the renovations came about as a result of the existing facility’s inability to execute the education school’s mission.

“When it comes to our education program, it’s all about innovation and keeping up with the latest teaching methods, but our building didn’t necessarily reflect that,” he said. “This building is one of the oldest on the campus. … Bringing this building up to speed is matching what we’re doing academically. We’re really looking to the future of teaching and what we can do to innovate, what we can do to better serve students and teachers.”

Kristin Hadley, Moyes College of Education dean, said the renovation will inspire innovation.

“The newly renovated McKay Education Building will provide a setting for innovative educational practices,” she said. “This building will enable our students to be prepared for their careers as effective professionals.”