Architects report progress on Kilgore's new high school and CTC, moving toward spring completion milestones

District and project architects updated trustees on construction progress for the new Kilgore High School and Career and Technical Center (CTC).

Kendall Edwards of Claycomb Associates described work at the West classroom wing, the stone entry arch and the competition gym, noting gypsum board installation in the gym and ongoing ceiling and mechanical work. He said storefront glazing and window frames are in place in many areas, scaffolding will be used soon for high work in the gym and auditorium, and crews are preparing exterior sidewalks and parking areas.

Board members asked practical questions: one teacher asked about convenience power outlets in banquet and shop rooms; Edwards said code requires convenience outlets roughly every 12 feet and the district is adding supplemental outlets where cabinetry had previously concealed some plugs. On lighting, architects said a foot-candle study set minimum and task-specific lighting for classrooms and corridors and that natural light from storefronts will enhance interior lighting.

Miss Cox gave a bond recap and timeline: a small correction increased the remaining bond balance by $857 for dispensers; staff plan to start moving furniture in April and host senior and public events in May, with a busy summer for equipment transition and technology setup ahead of school opening in August.

The board praised the progress and asked staff to continue addressing site-specific questions such as plug placement and final mechanical work.