School Board requests $4.1M surplus for transportation facility renovations

The Shenandoah County Public Schools (SCPS) School Board made significant strides towards enhancing its transportation facilities during a special call meeting on May 27, 2025. The board unanimously approved a motion to request a fiscal year 2024 surplus of $4,141,365 from the Board of Supervisors to support critical capital improvement projects.

The discussion highlighted the urgent need for modernization of the transportation facility, which has not seen substantial upgrades since its construction in 1968. Board members emphasized that the proposed improvements, including the construction of three new offices, are essential for maintaining operational efficiency and safety for both students and staff. The board acknowledged that partial upgrades would not suffice, stressing the importance of a comprehensive approach to the renovations.

In addition to the facility upgrades, the board discussed potential partnerships with the sheriff's department to secure additional funding and support for future projects. The conversation also touched on the importance of grant applications for school security enhancements, with board members noting past successes in securing funding for similar initiatives.

The timeline for grant applications was clarified, with expectations to know the outcomes by September or October. This information is crucial as the board plans to allocate resources effectively and ensure that projects are completed within the required timeframes.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving the infrastructure that supports the educational environment. The approved funding request is a pivotal step towards modernizing the transportation facility, which will ultimately benefit the entire school division and enhance the safety and efficiency of its operations. The board looks forward to collaborating with local agencies and stakeholders to realize these improvements in the coming fiscal year.