It was the first day of school for students and faculty at Spring Cove Elementary School, but it was extra special because students were returning to a brand new school.

Thursday marked the merging of Roaring Spring and East Freedom Elementary Schools.

Construction of the new building took 16 months.

School district officials started planning the merger a few years ago when renovations were needed for the other two buildings, which were built in the 1930s.

While some parents called for state lawmakers to step in, complaining that construction costs were too high, the district found it would be more financially beneficial to build a new school and combine the students and staff.

The new building is handicap accessible while the other two were not up to code.

As of Thursday, 514 students were enrolled at the Elementary School and the principal said they had approximately 20 new students registered.

"It makes it better instructionally for the students," said Principal Betsy Baker. "We lost a lot of time traveling back and forth. Teachers had to pack up their things and go to the other building. This way we get more instructional time with the students."

The school board is still determining what should be done with the two schools.

A public dedication ceremony is scheduled for Sunday.