.jpg)
RANDOLPH – Randolph school patrons will get a chance to vote on a school improvement project in the November election.
The $9.75 million school bond issue on the general election ballot will include a new Career and Technical Education building (currently the ag building), improvements to sustain the elementary building, and upgrades and repairs to the high school.
In total, nearly $4.9 million is planned for upgrades at the elementary; $4.2 million for a new CTE/ag building; and almost $650,000 for updates to the high school building.
Here’s a closer look at where the money will go:
Randolph Elementary upgrades According to a 2023 facility audit, Randolph’s elementary building is structurally sound, however, it is showing its age with some significant upgrades needed.
Asbestos ceiling and flooring tiles were removed this past summer. Those improvements will tie into ceiling replacement and the installation of energy-efficient lighting if the bond issue is approved. Other energy-efficient improvements planned include updating the electrical system and installing energy efficient windows.
“Right now we have single pane windows so basically whatever the temperature is on the outside that’s what they feel like inside next to those windows,” said Superintendent Daryl Schrunk.
The original boiler system will be replaced with new HVAC.
Schrunk said last winter the district ran into issues in replacing an ignitor switch to keep a boiler up and running at the elementary.
“The part, although very inexpensive, was difficult to find since the boilers are almost 60 years old,” he said.
Addressing the electrical system will help in keeping up with modern technology demands.
“Technology in 1965 was non-existent or at least minimal especially in schools,” Schrunk said. “Now, we have iPad carts and laptop carts that we roll into classrooms so each student has a device to use. There are not enough outlets to plug in the technology or other advancements that need electricity in 2024.”
Along with efficiency improvements, safety concerns will also be addressed by providing a more secure front entrance, and installing fire sprinklers and modern fire alarms.
“Sprinklers are not something you can trim out when you are renovating a whole building, that is required,” said Elementary Principal Denton Beacom.
Finally, additional restrooms will be provided - a girls’ restroom on the second floor and a boys’ restroom on the first floor. These will be upgraded to be accessible to those with disabilities as compliance with American with Disabilities Act is required, Beacom said.
A large sink would be shared by both boys and girls outside of the separate restrooms.
The bond also provides for the addition of a 900-square-foot serving kitchen including warming equipment and refrigeration units.
