District reports nearing completion of $20M construction projects; community donations helped build play structure

District officials told the board that the $20 million construction program is approaching completion and outlined summer work across buildings and athletic facilities.

Tim described projects due to start or finish before school begins: softball infield renovation beginning Aug. 8; completed or near-complete baseball/softball scoreboards; soccer field work and new football lighting converted to four LED poles; junior high floors and roof coating with a manufacturer walkthrough planned; new learning-center furniture and library furniture already installed; dishwasher installation at the elementary school; paving and seal-coating; step repairs coated as a cost-saving alternative to a full $85,000 replacement; and a planned replacement of the deteriorating track surface.

Officials said LED conversions and improved HVAC controls should yield energy savings and that many repairs are expected to extend asset life by 10–15 years. Tim and the superintendent noted the pirate-ship play structure received roughly one-third of its materials and labor as donations from community members; the superintendent said the structure is expected to be inspected for occupancy soon.

Donations approved at the meeting included $3,000 from the Greensburg Community School Educational Foundation for teacher grants, a $6,000 installment from Decar County Memorial Hospital toward an advertising/scoreboard partnership (second installment of an intended five-year $30,000 commitment), and a $560 anonymous donation to a school book project.

Why it matters: Completing capital projects before school starts reduces disruption and can lower short-term maintenance costs. Community donations reduced district outlays for some projects and show local financial support.

What’s next: Administrators expect most projects finished by the end of the month or by school start; the pirate ship inspection is scheduled for the next day.