Richland-Bean Blossom to expand early childhood education, upgrade schools
Richland-Bean Blossom School Corp. is planning to undergo construction, expansion and improvement in the next two to three years, paid for by a $40 million bond.
The plan has been in the works for a few years. The school board completed required public hearings and approved lease resolutions during meetings May 15 and June 19. A six-part approach will allocate funds to areas in the school corporation most in need of attention:
Student Activity Center
Edgewood High School kitchen
School Renovations, Lighting and Security
In spring 2022, the school corporation hired Lancer Associates Architecture and The Skillman Corporation to conduct a facility assessment study, said Superintendent Jerry Sanders. The six proposed projects are rooted in some of the firm’s recommendations.
Edgewood to expand preschool facility
The Edgewood Early Childhood Center project will double its space with new facilities to accommodate more students. The preschool waitlist has accrued more than 100 students the past two years.
“There’s clear evidence across the county that there’s a lack of early childhood education for families,” Sanders said.
Building a new preschool will also free up space for primary school classrooms. This is one of the larger projects, and it’s being allotted a maximum of $14.5 million, according to Matt Schumaker of Stifel Public Finance.
Edgewood High School gym expansion, upgrades to primary and intermediate schools
Another $8 million will go toward the Student Activity Center project. The auxiliary gym at Edgewood High School is too small to safely and effectively accommodate high school and junior high events, Sanders said.
The projects for Edgewood Primary and Intermediate schools have similar needs. New carpeting and upgraded cabinetry will be factored into the renovation budget.
High school food service areas, better sound for athletics
The high school cafeteria and kitchen, board members agreed, need substantial renovation. One of the oldest facilities on campus, the kitchen has received the least amount of attention over the last 50 years, board member Larry DeMoss said.
Improvements to sports sound systems and lighting, parking lots and security are included in the last installment of the plan. In the past, visitors have struggled to hear the announcer in the football and track stadiums. But families want to hear their students’ names clearly, Sanders said.
“It’s all about creating some pride in our student athletes.”
Tax effects and next steps
The undertaking will not raise property taxes, Assistant Superintendent Matt Irwin said.
The next board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. July 17. Board members will then authorize selling the bonds. Once the school corporation works with Lancer Associates and The Skillman Corp. to finalize project details, it will be able to open bidding at the end of this year or early 2024, Irwin said.
Construction is expected to start in 2024. Depending on the scope of each project, the timelines will vary. The Early Childhood Center and Student Activity Center should be completed in time for the 2025-26 school year.
This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: RB-B to improve Edgewood schools with $40 million bond
