The Orange County School Board on April 10 directed staff to continue exploring options to improve accessibility at Summertown High School’s gym, including installing a lift that would remove several rows of baseline bleachers and reduce spectator seating.

Board Chairman Daniel asked the district to gather cost estimates and legal guidance after staff outlined where a lift or platform could be installed. “This is the baseline bleachers… 3 to 4 rows of bleachers would be removed,” said Mister Atkins, describing the visitor-side location under consideration. Atkins said the removed rows would likely equal “between 25 and 40 seats.”

The board heard that a lift/platform could accommodate multiple wheelchairs. “I think we figured 6, at least 6 wheelchairs, with some companion seats beside them,” Mister Tucker said, explaining width and clearances needed for wheelchair access. Board members and staff repeatedly emphasized uncertainty about whether adding the lift would trigger additional code or ADA requirements because the gym is “grandfathered.” Atkins told the board the district is not currently under a violation but that changes could create new requirements.

Several members urged caution because structural work could prompt further upgrades. “If we start making changes, it may lead to other things,” Atkins said. Dr. Shannon and other members asked the board and staff to obtain ADA expertise and legal counsel to clarify evacuation, egress and related code implications before committing to construction. Board members also discussed long‑term options including whether a new gym should be pursued instead of a retrofit; one member urged the county commission to consider funding for a new facility.

After discussion, a board member moved to continue exploring the accessibility options and to seek ADA and legal guidance; the motion was seconded and the board approved it by voice vote. Atkins and Tucker were directed to continue research, gather cost estimates including prior lift installs, and report back with recommendations and any code/legal constraints.

What the board asked staff to study: cost estimates, structural implications of removing 3–4 rows of bleachers, estimated seating loss (25–40 seats), wheelchair capacity of a proposed platform (staff estimated about six wheelchairs), ADA compliance and evacuation/egress planning, and whether grant funding or county capital funding could apply.

The board did not commit funds or approve construction tonight; members agreed to obtain specialized ADA and legal advice and return with firm costs and options.