WESSON — Renovation of the Old Wesson School continues toprogress in leaps and bounds as the building takes on a renewedenergy, officials said.

Upon completion, the building will be used to house the SaintAmbrose Leadership College, which each year will prepare 20-25 maleMississippi high school graduates for college and lifeafterwards.

“The first stage is well under way,” said Mayor Bill Tigner. “Alot of the exterior woodwork is complete, and the structure work onthe towers is going well, too.”

Tigner added that the stairs have been put back in the twotowers that round out the east and west wings of the 1839building.

The roof, which is being replaced, is almost finished, lackingonly a few more weeks of work to fully protect the building fromfurther deterioration. The adjoining eaves have a new look withfresh coats of paint as well.

“They’re also in the process of putting in new windows, whichwill help seal the building up,” said Tigner.

The general public can grab onto a piece of history by donating$250 to fund one of the many windows at the school. The contributorwill have their name engraved in a plaque under a window. Anyonewishing to fund a window, can call Mayor Bill Tigner at320-1049.

Tigner will be seeking more funding for the project soon withthe help of Morgan Shands, who serves as executive director forSaint Ambrose Leadership College.

“We’re going to Washington to talk with our legislators,” saidTigner. “We feel confident we’ll get enough funds to finish theproject.”

Although, the project recently received $1 million in funding,additional funds will be needed to build a dormitory, dining roomand recreation area behind the school.

Residents interested in witnessing the changes taking place atthe site are welcome to view the work from the roadway but are notallowed on the school grounds.

Two arrests have already been made for people trespassing andeven vandalizing the area. The fine for trespassing is $500.

Tigner explained that construction and town officials plan tosoon allow the public to view the area closer.

“This summer I hope to have a mid-construction open house forpeople to come in and see the progress made,” he said.