Mr. Armstrong, a district facilities staff member, reported to the Warwick County School Corporation board that most summer construction projects have concluded, though some new equipment and finish work required troubleshooting. "A lot of HVAC work was finished. Not all the equipment worked, although it was brand new," Armstrong said, noting recent moderate temperatures allowed contractors to address issues.

Why it matters: timely completion of construction and safety projects affects classroom readiness, accessibility and building security as the school year begins.

Highlights Armstrong reported:
• Castle High School: the new show‑choir space was turned over to staff last week and is in use.
• John H. Castle: classrooms are expected to be ready at the end of next week after completion of terrazzo work; contractors installed a temporary wall to contain noise during finishing.
• Ramps and handrails: concrete pour is underway at one site and handrail delivery is the remaining schedule item; one reconstructed ramp is already operable.
• Transportation: the district is currently running almost all operational routes with district drivers; one maintenance‑garage staff member is covering a single afternoon route while staffing adjustments continue.
• Building security: installation of door contact sensors has begun at high schools and middle schools (six buildings completed so far); Armstrong described a "blue button" installed with the sensors that allows staff to lock doors centrally while still permitting entry for swipe‑access badge holders — intended to block intruders while maintaining staff access.

Armstrong said equipment for the 10 elementary schools has arrived but installations will be phased because of wiring and labor demands. He also said budget planning and project scoping for 2026 construction projects will proceed over the coming months with principals and architects.

Action taken: informational report; no board vote required.

Less critical detail: Armstrong praised contractors for handrail work at Booneville High School and said the district will continue phased security upgrades over the next year.

Next steps: staff will continue to troubleshoot HVAC issues, finish terrazzo and ramp work, and schedule phased security sensor installations at elementary buildings.