SURVEY GUIDES OAKWOOD SCHOOLS
Officials say options range from renovating to replacing buildings.
A school facilities OAKWOOD — plan that could cost between $48 million and $102 million was among topics addressed by Oakwood schools in a recent survey by the district.
The district recently sent out two surveys seeking feedback on issues including academics, parent engagement, food service and facilities. Parents and residents were asked in the surveys to address concerns regarding the district’s Master Facilities Plan that is under consideration.
In March, the district held a public meeting at which seven school facility options were presented. The plans ranged from a comprehensive renovation of all existing facilities, at $48 million, to renovations plus a new high school and early learning center building, at $102 million.
“We have beautiful old buildings,” said Oakwood Superintendent Kyle Ramey. “They continue to serve us well, but we have a responsibility to leave them better than we found them.
“Thanks to recent comprehensive reviews of district buildings, we are able to address additional repairs and updates that have come to our attention as part of our initial Master Facility Plan process.”
Getting parents and the community involved is an important part of determining how the district will proceed with its plan, officials said.
“Of course, our team is continuing to work on the long-range plan for our facilities,” Ramey said. “We appreciate the feedback we have received about the facilities, as well as suggestions on how to move forward. As you can imagine, there are a number of strong opinions, and we are considering all aspects of this complex community challenge.”
Ramey said there are multiple priorities that the district has included in its plans. They include:
■ Preserving current build- ings by prioritized infrastructure improvements.
■ No bond issue until May of 2019 at the earliest.
■ Maximizing the current footprint to create optimum learning spaces.
■ Addressing current performing arts rehearsal space constraints and possibly enhancing performance space, using private donations as much as possible.
■ Further exploring the concept of an Early Learning Center for PreK-1 that could also serve as community space, enabling lifelong learning opportunities for residents.
■ Eventually investigating the concept of a new high school or middle school.
■ Prioritizing phases that could be implemented during the next several years.
Traci Hale, community relations director for the district, said the surveys were sent to parents and community members in a multiple-choice format requesting feedback on multiple topics. The survey was also available on the district’s website.