As one of the oldest campuses in the Clark County School District, Bonanza High School holds deep significance for its alumni and surrounding community. Originally built in 1968 and expanded over the decades, the school is rich in legacy—home to notable graduates, from professional athletes and musicians to state leaders. In 2021, LGA Architecture was selected to lead a comprehensive renovation that would honor that legacy while bringing the campus into a new era.

Working closely with CCSD and a range of departments—from Construction Management to Food Services and Security—LGA conducted a detailed assessment of the campus and confirmed the need for extensive upgrades to extend the school’s useful life by another 25+ years. The renovation focused on five primary areas: site improvements, modernization of building systems, upgrades to learning environments, networking and low-voltage integration, and a full kitchen overhaul. A late-stage addition expanded the cafeteria to support a growing student population.

But this wasn’t just a renovation—it was a preservation effort. The design team worked with school leaders, including Bonanza alum and assistant principal Lisa Hungerford, to ensure that meaningful elements from the past were reflected in the reimagined spaces. For example, wood paneling salvaged from the original 1976 gymnasium was repurposed into a new mural in the remodeled cafeteria. A bold “1976” graphic set against Bonanza’s iconic yellow and brown palette now welcomes students and alumni alike.

Interior improvements included fresh paint, lighting, flooring, bathroom renovations, front office upgrades, and the removal of outdated lockers to make way for more open and functional learning zones. The athletic program also received key updates, including turf playing fields and a modernized gym while preserving its nostalgic character—described by students and staff as “an old Hoosiers gym right in the heart of Las Vegas.”

With its 50th anniversary on the horizon, Bonanza’s transformation is more than just physical. It reflects the school’s motto—“Once a Bengal, Always a Bengal”—and ensures that future generations of students will experience the same pride and sense of belonging that has defined Bonanza for decades.