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Castleberry ISD details REACH High School remodel plan and potential bond reallocations
Summary
District staff outlined plans to expand REACH programming inside the CHS footprint using bond savings, discussed options to demolish an older wing for green space, and said BTC may be authorized to begin bidding pending board approval of change orders.
District staff presented Phase 3 of the voter‑approved bond program and a proposed plan to expand REACH High School programming by remodeling existing classrooms and reallocating savings from soft costs into construction if the board approves.
Presenters said CHS classroom maps show assigned spaces across floors, including dedicated spaces for inclusion/co‑teaching, flex rooms for testing and collaboration, a new band hall and theater, and several unassigned rooms reserved for growth. On the REACH program, a presenter said the school’s identity would remain intact while students would gain “greater access to career and technical education pathways, industry‑based certifications, dual credit and workforce experience.”
Board members asked about the budget impact of keeping REACH and TRUCE in their current spaces and of reusing the ALT (alternative) building. The administration said savings realized through onsite technology work, e‑rate refunds and contingency reductions have created flexibility within the $98 million bond footprint. Staff described a likely next step: authorize BTC to begin bidding and later seek a board change order to move funds from soft costs into the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) if the bids and budgets align.
On reuse vs. demolition, staff recommended removing an older wing with costly HVAC/roofing/electrical needs while preserving recently renovated commons and restrooms, which could create green space requested by the community (for soccer fields and youth activities). Staff warned that waiting too long could raise costs because of inflation.
Next steps: staff said more detailed renderings and budget details will be presented at the July 20 board meeting and recommended the board authorize BTC to begin the bidding process; any reallocation of bond savings would return to the board as a change‑order decision.
No formal action on the bond reallocation or demolition was taken at the meeting; the presentation and Q&A were informational.
