Superintendent says construction near completion; district to host community tours at Stifton’s Fest

The Superintendent of Central Public School District said construction tied to a recently passed bond is "just about to cross the finish line," with ceiling tiles being installed, high- and middle-school lockers painted and final site work scheduled to finish before the district's first home football game on Aug. 27. He said cleaning crews will move in this week and staff will unpack classroom materials so teachers can set up before school starts.

The Superintendent described auditorium upgrades that include a new projection system, a new screen and an ADA-accessible ramp. He said painters have begun work in the auditorium and that crews are completing the last lift of asphalt and grass seeding in exterior areas. "Once the crane demobilizes, then all of the civil work ... will all get done," he said.

Looking ahead, the Superintendent said the district will offer community tours during Stifton’s Fest weekend to give residents a chance to see the new facilities. He said a district staff member will post tour dates on the district Facebook page and coordinate with city partners to share notices. The district will also present the student representative Jackson with a plaque to thank him for his service.

Board members and administrators stressed the district's intention to make the new facilities accessible to residents while balancing school schedules. "I want that sucker full," the Superintendent said, describing his hope that the field house and track attract daily community use once school activities are scheduled.

The board did not take additional action on construction at the meeting; the Superintendent invited trustees to tour the building after the meeting.