Guest Editorial
by Supt. Wes Coy
Public Meeting Set on School Possibilities
The construction of the new school building is well under way. Footings are nearing completion and soon the concrete slab for the classroom wings will be poured. We are hopeful that the structure of the building will actually be going up in the next few weeks.
In the midst of all this progress we find ourselves in a unique, unexpected and welcome situation. The bids for the construction were about 15 percent under estimates of what the building would cost. Call it a sign of the economic times, call it fortunate, call it whatever you like, but the bottom line is that now we have what is most likely a one-time opportunity to address some longstanding infrastructure needs on our campus.
Tops on the list of items that need to be addressed are the heating systems in the elementary and CTE buildings, as well as numerous maintenance issues across campus that have been ignored due to lack of funding over the years. Upgraded parking and demolition of the soon-to-be-unused junior high building have a place on the list, as do such things as increased space in the elementary.
One proposal to spend some of the money was to increase the capacity of the gym from its current design of 1,555 seats to 1,975 seats. This proposal was deleted by the board at its last meeting, not because it is necessarily a poor idea, but because all the other issues, needs, possibilities and costs have not been fully explored and defined. The gym and its costs are just one piece of a complicated puzzle that has not yet been put together.
In an attempt to provide everyone — the board and the community — with a more accurate picture, we are going to hold an informational meeting on Monday, May 3, at 6:30 p.m. in the elementary gym. At this meeting, everyone will get a chance to speak, if they so desire — but just as important, everyone will get a chance to take a look at the big picture that includes all of our needs and priorities. This meeting will be informational and fact-finding in nature and no decisions will be made. Any decisions will be made at a later date.
However this and subsequent meetings turn out, and whatever is ultimately decided about these issues, I have complete confidence in the board to make decisions that serve the best interests of the students of the district and their needs. I hope you will take the opportunity to be involved and attend. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me anytime.
Wes Coy is superintendent of the Huntley Project School District.
