Construction moving forward at Murray High and junior high; food services expand FFVP and prepare 'Future Chef' event

District staff briefed the board on facilities and food-service programs.

Director Taggart said work is on schedule at the high school, with framing, ductwork, and plumbing underway on the first floor and metal deck and masonry progressing on the second floor toward the third. At the junior high, he said about 150 workers are on site, gym panels were tilted this week, and masonry and steel work are proceeding; some mechanical equipment was received early to hedge against tariff delays.

Food Services Director Gwen reported the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program is active at Horizon and Liberty schools, providing students twice-weekly samples and short educational flyers about the produce. She listed items served and said the program requires extra staff effort but has been well received. Gwen announced a Future Chef competition for students at Hillcrest Junior High on Feb. 18, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., and noted the district replaced dish machines in eight schools and ovens in four due to failing equipment. She also described menu experiments and an allergy incident that prompted a menu change.

Next steps: Construction and equipment projects will continue on schedule; food-services staff will circulate Future Chef details and coordinate judging and logistics with board members who volunteer.