North Adams Middle School plans extensive bathroom renovations and enhanced wayfinding signage

In a recent meeting of the Bond Oversight Committee for the Forest Grove School District 15, members gathered to discuss significant renovations and improvements planned for local schools, particularly focusing on restroom upgrades and enhanced safety measures at Forest Grove High School.

As the meeting unfolded, the committee highlighted the ongoing renovations at North Amity Middle School (NAMS), where the focus is on modernizing restrooms to be more inclusive. Four new single-user restrooms are set to be refreshed with new partitions, paint, and fixtures. The more extensive remodels will transform existing facilities into gender-neutral bathrooms, promoting accessibility for all students. Notably, the renovations will also include a larger ADA-compliant restroom equipped with a changing table and hoist, catering to students with special needs.

The discussion also touched on the school's layout, which has been described as a "maze." To address this, the district is collaborating with an architectural firm to implement a color-coded navigation system throughout the hallways. This initiative aims to simplify navigation for students and staff, making it easier to find classrooms and key areas like the gym and cafeteria. The new signage will feature both English and Spanish, along with symbols to assist non-English speakers.

Turning to Forest Grove High School, the committee reported on seismic assessments that revealed the building already meets safety standards. However, plans are in place to enhance visibility and security at the school's front office. Proposed changes include relocating the reception desk and adding windows to create a more welcoming environment. A new buzz-in system will also be installed, ensuring that access to the office is controlled, further enhancing safety for students and staff.

These renovations reflect the district's commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive educational environment. As the Bond Oversight Committee continues to oversee these projects, the community can look forward to improved facilities that prioritize both functionality and accessibility.