Estill County Board approves new Bridal School site and amended school calendar

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Estill County Board of Education Boardroom, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. On April 1, 2025, the Estill County School Board convened for a special meeting, addressing pivotal developments in the district's educational landscape.

The meeting kicked off with the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of unity and purpose. The board quickly moved to a significant agenda item: the approval of a proposed site for the new Estill County Middle School. Mr. Cornett, a key figure in the discussions, emphasized the importance of this step in the lengthy process of establishing the new school. The board unanimously approved the request for an inspection of the proposed site, which is strategically located behind the current high school, ensuring that students remain within a single campus and minimizing transportation challenges.

Following this, the board addressed the necessity of formal approval from the Kentucky Board of Education regarding the site, which had undergone extensive analysis. Mr. Cornett reassured attendees that the site had been carefully selected after reviewing several alternatives, all of which were deemed unsuitable due to factors such as proximity to a landfill and logistical complications for student transportation. The board's decision to proceed with the chosen site was met with unanimous support, reflecting a collective commitment to enhancing educational facilities in the community.

In a further affirmation of their decision-making process, the board certified that all reasonable sites had been evaluated and confirmed their intent not to pursue any additional locations. This step was crucial in documenting the thoroughness of their review and ensuring transparency in the decision-making process.

As the meeting progressed, the board also considered an amendment to the school calendar, signaling ongoing adjustments to meet the needs of students and staff. While details on this amendment were not extensively discussed, it underscored the board's responsiveness to the evolving educational environment.

With each motion passing with a unanimous five-zero vote, the meeting concluded on a note of optimism. The decisions made during this gathering not only reflect the board's dedication to improving educational infrastructure but also highlight the collaborative spirit of the Estill County community. As the board members departed, the promise of a new middle school loomed on the horizon, a beacon of hope for future generations of students.