Parking lots and bus loops at Elmira Elementary (EES), Veneta Elementary (VES) and Elmira High School (EHS) posed challenges the first few days of the school year. However, due to planning, coordination and the patience of our parents and students, I am confident the worst of the congestion is over. The schools all appreciate the patience of our parents when visiting one of the sites under construction (especially at EES and EHS), where a simple trip to the office can be somewhat of an adventure. The next challenge in regards to parking lots will be at Elmira Elementary School when demolition of the current school begins. The families of EES should stay tuned for what that plan will look like as we will begin communicating it prior to the holiday break in December.
All of the projects continue to be progressing nicely, and are on schedule for completion. One project that has begun since the last update in August is the project at the District office. This building is getting much needed repairs that will extend its life with new siding and roofing. In addition, there will be new ADA access ramps as well as a new septic drain field.
The two sites that remain under heavy construction are EHS and EES. At EHS, the gym construction remains on track to be finished prior to the holiday break. The girl’s locker room is completed with only some final cosmetic work remaining. The fire suppression systems throughout the remodel area are done and provide additional student and public safety. The new lobby recently had its concrete slab poured and framing is now beginning in that area.
At EES we remain on track to move into the building over the holiday break. The District is currently working on a plan that will allow that to occur in a way that makes the transition smooth for students, and as simple for staff as we can possibly make it. While there is no easy way to make a move like this in such a short timeframe, we are confident we can minimize the stress on staff and students by beginning to plan early during this challenge. Within the building, the contractors are currently in the interior finish phase of the project with cabinets and flooring being installed and painting being completed. On the exterior, siding and hardscape around the building are in the final stages of completion.
The Fern Ridge School District provides a monthly update on the progress of the work funded by the $26.7 million bond approved by voters in May 2014, published on the fourth Wednesday of each month. For more information about bond activities, visit the District’s website at www.fernridge.k12.or.us/bond, or call the District Office at 541-935-2253.
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