During the recent Board of Education meeting in Pickerington, Ohio, significant discussions centered around the ongoing construction projects at Thomas Worthington High School. The meeting highlighted the challenges and solutions being implemented to ensure a smooth transition during the renovation process.

One of the primary topics was the temporary modifications to the auxiliary gym, where temporary walls will be constructed using existing locker and music storage units. This innovative approach aims to create secure spaces for musical instruments while providing the arts program with the best possible environment under the current conditions.

Accessibility was another critical issue addressed. The renovation will limit access to some classrooms on the second story of the old building, particularly those on the far east side near Evening Street. To mitigate accessibility challenges, a new lift will be installed at the southeast corner of the building, replacing the old elevator that will no longer be operational. This lift will ensure that students and staff can access the upper levels of the building safely.

Traffic concerns were also raised, with the understanding that there will be some disruptions this year due to construction. However, the team at Thomas Worthington, along with various stakeholders, is committed to minimizing these obstacles as much as possible.

A notable impact of the renovations is the absence of a kitchen during the construction period. The food service team is working diligently to prepare meals at an alternate location, ensuring that students still have access to a variety of food options. While food will be prepared off-site and brought in daily, there will still be designated areas for students to eat and gather.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts of the school administration and staff to address the challenges posed by the construction. As the renovation progresses, the community can expect continued updates and solutions aimed at enhancing the educational environment at Thomas Worthington High School.