Grandview Heights Schools detail logistics, safety and modular‑classroom plan for next school year

District officials outlined Tuesday night how Grandview Heights Schools will operate during the 2026–27 school year while Stevenson Elementary is replaced, saying the plan relies on two leased modular classroom units, revised traffic patterns and increased supervision to keep students safe and maintain instructional time.

The presentation — led by operations and building leadership — described two modular units placed across the street from the campus, tours for staff and families this summer, and a broad set of traffic and safety measures the district says were developed with the city, police, fire and traffic engineers. Officials emphasized the modular classrooms have individual heating and cooling, modern restrooms and enough space for planned furniture to be moved from Stevenson.

Why it matters: hundreds of students will use the modulars and circulate across a tight campus footprint. The district framed the plan as temporary, adaptable and safety‑focused: officials said staggered starts, clearly designated drop‑off loops, staff on duty, community crosswalk volunteers and security upgrades are intended to prevent gridlock and reduce risks during arrival and dismissal.

Key elements of the plan include:

- Modular classrooms and tours: the district is leasing modular units (presented in a vendor video) and will host summer tours so students and parents can familiarize themselves with the layout.

- Drop‑off and pickup: there will be separate drop‑off loops assigned by grade band (K–1; 2–3; 4–5). Parents are asked not to exit vehicles to keep traffic moving; staff will be positioned to escort students from cars to the modular entrances.

- Start/pickup times: kindergarten/Stevenson students will begin around 8:10 a.m.; Larson Middle School and high school students will begin at 8:00 a.m. All three buildings will dismiss at 3:00 p.m. to avoid extended vehicle wait times, the district said.

- Supervision and movement: adults will escort students between modulars and the gym/cafeteria when needed; the district said teachers and aids will staff critical crosswalks and circulation points.

- Security features: officials detailed a controlled, two‑stage buzz‑in system for each modular (secure foyer then main office), electronic locks and keyfob access for staff, 12 new perimeter video cameras, additional outdoor lighting and a radio system that links all buildings for emergency communications. The district said it is compiling the state safety report and coordinating drills with local police and fire.

Community engagement and next steps

The district circulated a preview of the plan in advance and provided QR codes at the meeting for questions; they said staff will personally respond to submissions and compile an FAQ. Officials repeatedly said the operational details will be monitored during the first days and weeks of school and adjusted as needed.

Public commenters at the meeting raised safety issues the district said it will address: resident Katie Luna Hookway urged clearer bicycle and pedestrian guidance and more bike racks; Elizabeth Mitchell, who identified herself as a pediatrician, asked that the district preserve access to play structures and seek community gym space while district gyms are constrained. "Movement and activity for our children is so important," Mitchell said.

The board did not vote on this presentation; staff said implementations and communications will proceed over the summer and the district will update families with detailed, grade‑specific logistics and open‑house opportunities.