Keystone Oaks board approves up to $500,000 to replace gym bleachers

The Keystone Oaks School District board approved a capital purchase to replace worn bleachers in the middle‑ and high‑school gyms, voting to authorize a contract with All American Athletics at a cost not to exceed $500,000.

A committee member introduced the recommendation, saying the purchase would align with planned floor resurfacing and included multiple quotes: "Bleachers at the middle school and high school is recommended the Board approve the purchase of new bleachers for the high school and middle school gyms ... at a cost not to exceed $500,000," the committee member said during the meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Stocks told the board the project is expected to be staged so the middle‑school work is done first and the high‑school gym follows, which should allow the high school to continue practices. He also noted the district will fund the purchase from capital reserves: "Be very proud of yourselves as a board. You're paying for this in cash," Dr. Stocks said.

Board members discussed bid timing, the need for three quotes and the plan to resurface floors while bleachers are removed. The administration said the work is expected to be scheduled so both gym renovations would be complete by July, with middle school first and the high school following by a few weeks.

The motion to approve the purchase carried on a voice vote. The administration said it will proceed with contracting and scheduling the work for the summer so that athletics and graduation schedules are preserved.