After three months of school, the new vocational facility seems to have gotten great reviews from the whole county, largely due to new technology, new classrooms, and new offices, plus it’s a new, more workable building altogether.

One of the most noticeable benefits from the new building can simply be found in its location. The administration and staff at R.C.H.S. are excited about the fact that the new vocational school is right next door, only a short walk down an enclosed hallway. "I love that it’s right next door," R.C.H.S. principal Jennifer Mattingly said. She stated that the short distance allows the schools to forgo the fifteen minute bus rides that used to be necessary for students traveling to the old vocational school. "(Eliminating) The bus rides has saved time and has given kids more time in class." As of now no problems are showing

Mr. Ralph Baker, principal at the new facility, thinks its great being right next door, too, and he is very excited by the new facility has a lot to offer Rock students. However, there are a few problems, or "bugs" so to speak, that need some work. The school had trouble with getting the construction companies back to sort some things out and solve some issues with the original construction. "As of now, some things do not work" said Baker.

Mr. Baker did note that the vocational school has made changes to come more in line with the neighboring high school. For example, agendas are now used at the vocational school just like they are at the high school (as hall passes, etc), and the class schedule was matched with the high school as well.

Mr. Baker thinks that the community has shown great enthusiasm about the new facility. They had ribbon cutting ceremony provided by the Chamber of Commerce, and about 175 people attended the open house offering a tour of the new school. The comments of the people who have viewed the school have been very positive, according to Baker.

Overall, the district and both schools seem pleased with the new building. Mr. Pensol, the Rockcastle County Instructional Supervisor, has stated that the fact that the school is a wide-open, modern space is something he likes about the school.

As for now, the old vocational building is being used for district storage of old and new equipment and supplies," said Pensol. Also, the other section of the former vocational campus is being used for Rockcastle Academy of Academic Achievement.