Much of the talk surrounding the Manhattan Beach school district's construction program has focused on what didn't get built at Mira Costa High School -- namely a library and performing arts center.

But despite accusations of fiscal mismanagement at the district level, officials say Mira Costa has benefited from five years' worth of facilities upgrades. And they're encouraging members of the public to see for themselves.

On Monday, the community will get a chance to inspect the recently opened Student Services building, a new 12-classroom edifice and other renovations during an open house at the 701 S. Peck Ave. campus.

"I know that this is an opportunity to showcase our campus and to highlight what has been done," said Mira Costa Principal Lynn McCormack.

Since last summer, the Manhattan Beach district has been mired in allegations that trustees and some former administrators were negligent in overshooting construction budgets as they used more than $100 million in voter-approved bonds, state matching funds and low-interest loans to renovate aging campuses and build a new middle school.

Because of the overruns, there weren't enough dollars left to build a planned library and performing arts center at Mira Costa, which was last in line for its overhaul.

But McCormack said her campus is nevertheless improved thanks to a new building with a dozen classrooms and a striking glass-and-red-brick Student Services center, which houses administrative offices, counselors and a handful of classrooms. And, in addition to the more obvious changes, she said work crews have modernized the drama and band halls, increased Internet access, done away with asbestos, built a new pool and upgraded the sewer system.

"This is a celebration of everything we've done," McCormack said. "I'm hopeful that people are interested in coming and seeing just how Mira Costa has changed over the last five years."

Though guests are encouraged to arrive at 5 p.m., the evening is expected to officially kick off at 5:30 with a brief program outside the Student Services building on Artesia Boulevard. A tour of new and modernized facilities is scheduled to follow from 6 to 7 p.m.