Southridge High School is a public high school located in the city of Kennewick, Washington, USA (in Benton County). The school is part of Kennewick School District. Construction of the $30 million building began in 1995, with classroom doors opening in the spring of 1997. The original plans greatly mirrored those of a prison or jail, and many visitors often mistake Southridge for a prison. This is a common misconception. The plans for Southridge High School were originally designed for a high school on the east side of the country; however, the school was never built and the Kennewick School District purchased the blueprints and plans. During construction, classes were held at Fruitland Elementary School, under the direction of Principal Ron Williamson. The first commencement was held inside the Toyota Center in June 1999. Southridge was the third 4A school constructed in Kennewick, but with the reorganization of leagues in 2006, Southridge became a 3A school and is now a member of the Columbia Basin League. Yet again, in 2008, it was decided that Southridge would be put back under the 4A schools along with 2 other high schools in Kennewick, WA.