Parents oppose $4.6M plan for modular buildings at overcrowded Lamar Middle School

During the recent Board Regular Voting Meeting on April 24, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed allocation of $4.6 million for modular portable buildings at Lamar Middle School. Parents and community members voiced their strong opposition to the plan, citing overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure as pressing issues that need to be addressed before any additional funding is approved.

Several parents, including those with children currently attending Lamar, expressed their worries about the school's capacity, which is already operating well above its limits. One parent highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive plan, stating that simply adding portable buildings would not resolve the underlying problems of overcrowding. They urged the board to visit the school during peak times to witness the conditions firsthand.

Another parent emphasized that the school's core facilities, such as hallways, lunchrooms, and bathrooms, are not equipped to handle more students. They argued that the proposed solution is merely a temporary fix that could compromise the safety and well-being of students and staff. The sentiment was echoed by multiple speakers who called for a long-term strategy rather than a short-term solution that could exacerbate existing issues.

The discussions also touched on the potential influx of students from Adobe Middle School, which some parents believe would further strain Lamar's already limited resources. They argued that the focus should be on improving conditions at Adobe rather than transferring students to an overcrowded facility.

As the board deliberates on this matter, the community's call for a more thoughtful and strategic approach to addressing school capacity and infrastructure needs remains clear. The outcome of this decision will have lasting implications for the students and families connected to Lamar Middle School, highlighting the importance of community input in shaping educational policies.