1. New gymnasiums
Four new gymnasiums are expected to be completed at four elementary campuses—Parmley, Cannan, Meador and Turner—by the end of August, according to Superintendent Tim Harkrider. The gym projects cost approximately $2.16 million each, according to the district. Previously, the schools had to convert their cafeteria multiple times a day, as the campuses did not have a gym.
Bond funds allocated: $8.64 million
Funding source: 2020 bond
Anticipated completion: end of August
2. Roark Early Education Center
A ribbon-cutting for the new Roark Early Education Center occurred Aug. 7. According to Harkrider, the opening of the new center is important because he believes it is an opportunity to provide students with resources to be successful when they reach kindergarten. The new center increased capacity from 270 students to 400 students ages 3 and 4 who qualify for the program.
Bond funds allocated: $21.87 million
Funding source: 2020 bond
Opened: Aug. 7
3. Lynn Lucas Middle School expansion
The addition to Lynn Lucas Middle School is expected to be constructed in summer 2023. Fine arts additions include two band halls, a choir room, two practice storage rooms, a library, an office and a practice room. The completion date is not set in stone, according to Harkrider. Funded separately from the 2020 bond, a new science wing was open to students on the first day of class in 2022.
Bond funds allocated: $2.42 million
Funding source: 2022 bond
Anticipated completion: August 2023
4. Turf installation on high school fields
Similar to artificial grass, synthetic field turf will be installed on the softball and baseball fields at Willis High School, Harkrider said.
Bond funds allocated: $4 million
Funding source: 2022 bond
Anticipated completion: summer 2023
