October 2009- Jim Threadgill, Administrator of Operations and Athletics, presented an update of the district’s bond projects at the Governing Board Meeting on October 7, 2009. The following are some highlights from his presentation:

The bond came to be after extensive research proved the need for the bond. A 135 member Special Election Citizens Committee recommended to and the Governing Board approved a special election asking our community for an $80 million bond. In November 2003, our community responded with a successful election.

From the beginning of this endeavor, the district recognized the importance of categorizing and prioritizing projects. All of the identified needs of each school were determined to be in one of four categories:

·         Infrastructure

·         Safety

·         Student Growth

·         Equity

In addition to the project categories, bond projects were given an initial priority designation that still guides expenditures today. Projects were given a letter (A-D) to reflect their priority level, with the A list being most urgent. We have been very busy the past six years. A majority of projects (approximately 80%) have been accomplished through the use of bond funds. We have addressed:

·         75 (91%) of the A list projects

·         52 B list projects

·         63 C list projects

·         22 D list projects

Several projects are common for many or all schools. Major projects that have been completed or are ongoing at all nine schools within the district include the following:

·         All-Weather Tracks

·         Safety Glass Installation

·         Facility Renovations

·         Auditorium Safety Repairs

·         Bleacher Safety Upgrades

·         Electrical Repairs and Upgrades

·         Gym Air-Conditioning

·         HVAC Upgrades

·         Roofing Repairs

The bond dollars have gone a long way in improving facilities, adding additional classroom space, building pride in our athletic facilities and in helping us to remain competitive with surrounding districts. Much has been accomplished but there is still work to be done. I can assure you that it continues to be the goal of our staff to maintain quality facilities and appropriate learning environments on each campus.