New Building, Renovation Projects Discussed by Unit 40 Board 

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The discussion of a new Grades K-2 building for the Unit 40 school district gained traction Monday night when the Board approved a resolution for the issuance of not in excess of $37 million dollars in general obligation debt certificates. The funding would cover a new building and improving district facilities.

Last night’s vote, though, just starts the ball rolling. The Board would next vote, likely in May, to issue up to $55 million in bonds. The bonds would pay off the debt certificates.

In addition to paying for the new building, the revenue would pay for renovation at South Side School for Pre-K classrooms, would pay for renovation at Central Grade School including library improvements, and would pay for paving improvements at the high school and at Central.

Drainage is a significant consideration at several locations around the district. Superintendent Andy Johnson said lack of adequate drainage is the reason some projects have been pushed off to the next year. In addition to Central, drainage improvements at South Side would be helpful. A goal would be to carry water away from the building. There was also discussion of adding parking for staff on the northeast corner of the property.

Damien Schlitt of BLDD Architects Monday reviewed various district projects, including the proposed new K-2 building. Schlitt said either the Central School property or the location west across from the EHS athletic complex are suitable locations. Asked by board member Desha Wear whether a two-story building would save space for future projects, Schlitt said “up” is not cheaper, but said it’s not cost-prohibitive.

Also Monday, the Unit 40 board approved $418,000 in instructional material purchases for the coming school year; approved registration fees for the coming school year with what were described as “minimal” changes; waived the dual credit charge with Lake Land College since Lake Land waived their charge as part of their Laker Connect initiative; approved an intergovernmental facility use agreement with the City of Effingham for use of district facilities in case of an emergency; hired Glass and Shuffett to do audit work for $32,450; and approved fencing projects around the Central School pond and at West Side School for around $46,000.

Also, Johnson reported district enrollment at 2,334, which is three more pupils than last month and 48 more than last year at this time. He shared that registration is still open for the 21st Century summer school program. 170 students are enrolled in the after school program. Transportation home is now available for the program.

Johnson also shared that there were 123 applicants for Unit 40 scholarships valued at more than $51,000.