Community leaders unite to reshape future of school district

During a recent government meeting, Bethany Latham, a parent and member of a district-wide scoping team, presented findings on the condition of local school buildings and the future of educational facilities in the district. Latham, who has an eighth-grade son at Wooden Middle School, emphasized the collaborative effort involving parents, community leaders, educators, and professionals from the architectural firm DLZ.

The team has been assessing the district's school buildings over the past year, focusing on their conditions and future needs. DLZ conducted a thorough evaluation, scoring each school on various criteria, including site conditions, building envelopes, interiors, and essential systems like HVAC and lighting. Alarmingly, most schools received a score of \"C\" or worse, with the only notable exception being the high school’s exterior, which was renovated less than a decade ago.

Latham highlighted critical discussions within the group regarding potential changes to school structures and grade levels. Topics included the possibility of moving fifth graders back to elementary schools, the continuation of specialized programs, and the need for pre-kindergarten options at all elementary locations. A significant concern raised was the community's lack of adequate childcare facilities, which is reportedly costing the county millions.

The group also explored the implications of new housing developments on the southeast side of the city, which could impact school enrollment and capacity. Latham stressed the importance of considering various options, including school closures, renovations, new constructions, and potential redistricting, to address the district's evolving needs effectively.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to making informed decisions about educational infrastructure, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely while addressing the pressing needs of families and students in the district.