From the Superintendent’s Desk: Remaining school bond funds and plans for their usage

By Karl Heidrich

What bond funds remain after the renovations, additions, and upgrades from construction projects during the 2016-2017 school year?

In the original bond application we set aside a reserve to demolish the former middle school. Since the building has been sold, we are now able to use the reserve for additional projects. Our intention is to work toward energy efficiencies across our district. One project will include upgrading to energy efficient LED lighting at both Smith and Heritage. The second project will include upgrading windows and doors at the original section of the senior high building. We will be scheduling both of these projects for the end of summer and expect completion before the 2018-2019 school year begins.

We continue to have a reserve for technology purchasing. Our district has created a five year technology cycle plan. Technology continues to be a priority to equip our school district with the latest educational technology and infrastructure. Further, it also is a priority to continue with 1:1 technology for all students PK-12. Additionally, we have remaining bond funds for additional bus purchasing. We will continue to purchase additional buses at the conclusion of this school year and during the 2018-2019 school year.

Finally, we are also considering a small maintenance/storage addition attached to the back of the Junior/Senior High.

Completing and finishing all of these projects will wind down the Series 1 bond funding for Stockbridge Community Schools. After spending down all of Series 1 bond funds, the district can open up funding from Series 2 in the year 2020-2021 school year. Series 2 is a total of $990,000 which is reserved for continuing our technology purchasing cycle and for additional bus purchasing. The entire school bond program will conclude once Series 2 funds have been exhausted.

Again, we appreciate the school district community for your continued support of our schools.

Karl Heidrich has been an administrator for Stockbridge Community Schools since 1999 and Superintendent of Schools since 2013.