Dublin Scioto High School opened a 60,000-square-foot addition on Aug. 10, giving the Irish a bigger building just 11 days before they kick off their first season competing in Division I football after opting up from Division II this summer.
Superintendent Dr. Jen Schwanke, Dublin Mayor Chris Amorose Groomes and Board President Amy Messick delivered remarks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, held just before the Board of Education meeting. Principal Thomas Cochran then led attendees on a tour of the two-story expansion, according to Dublin City Schools.
Board members, City Council members, district leadership and community members attended.
The addition sits on the north side of the building between the existing academic wings and includes 27 new classrooms with capacity for 675 additional students, four science labs, two structured learning classrooms, 11 small-group instruction workrooms and expanded cafeteria space. Some spaces will be used this school year, but the majority will open for 2027–28 after redistricting brings additional students to Scioto.
The expansion was first identified in the district's 2016 Master Plan. Voters approved a levy and bond issue in 2023 to fund it, and construction began in May 2025.
Division I opt-up
The OHSAA announced June 22 that Dublin Scioto is one of eight Ohio schools that opted up to Division I football for the 2026 postseason. The Irish had been assigned to Division II but chose to compete at the higher level, joining Toledo St. John's and Clayton Northmont in Region 2.
The Division I enrollment threshold is 601 students. Scioto's enrollment currently falls below that mark, making the opt-up a voluntary move into tougher competition.
Season opener and Football Frenzy
Dublin Scioto opens the season Aug. 21, with a 7 p.m. away game at Thomas Worthington. The first home game follows Aug. 28, when Briggs visits at 7 p.m.
The night before that home opener, the Dublin Scioto Touchdown Club hosts the inaugural Football Frenzy pep rally on Aug. 27, from 6–8 p.m. at 4000 Hard Rd. The free event features football-themed games, chances to meet players, cheerleaders and the marching band, raffles, a silent auction and food. VIP tickets are available and include a frozen treat, spirit bracelet, rally towel and a raffle entry for prizes including a chance to be "Coach for a Game" or a 2026–27 All-Sports Family Pass valued at $253.
The Irish host New Albany on Sept. 4 and Westerville South on Sept. 11 in Ohio Capital Conference play.
