Pocahontas board adopts master facilities plan and flags security work near planned bypass

The POCAHONTAS SCHOOL DISTRICT board voted to approve a resolution adopting the district master facilities plan required for submission to the state review division. Dr. ARogle told the board the packet includes the narrative, ADA‑compliance documentation and a planned‑projects list and said the resolution indicates the board has reviewed and supports the plan.

"This is our way — your way of communicating to the division that you are supportive of that master facilities plan," Dr. ARogle said, describing required narrative and compliance attachments. The board approved the resolution by voice vote; the chair announced, "Motion passes four to zero."

Dr. ARogle summarized recent work already reflected in the plan: repaired and resurfaced parking lots, disability parking improvements, repair of a high‑school cafeteria exterior lift, and ADA‑compliant restroom remodeling in the junior high and cafeteria. He said staff will add several projects to the submitted list: security doorways and a secure entry at MD, bathroom and floor repairs at MD, and a proposed playground renovation at the elementary school.

Board members also raised safety concerns tied to a planned regional bypass that will come close to the school's west side. Dr. ARogle said the district will study options including fencing or other barriers along the west and possibly the north sides to protect privacy and safety; he estimated such work could be a larger project ("$150,000–$200,000" was offered as a ballpark figure) and placed in a multi‑year facilities forecast.

The board discussed that some ADA items remain technically compliant only with circuitous routes (for example, accessible routes that require going outside) and that the plan documents those conditions and prioritizes remedying them when feasible. The board approved the resolution with the understanding that items may be added to the plan later.