(Columbus) Voters in the Columbus School District will have a couple opportunities next month to learn about the facilities referendum appearing on the April ballot. If approved, the $30-million-dollar question will address renovating the high school’s cafeteria as well as the shop classes, art and special education. Work would also include renovating the bathrooms and upgrades to the library as well as the replacement of the second floor bleachers.
At the elementary school there would be a two-story classroom addition, secure entrances, a two-court gymnasium addition, new playground areas as well as renovations to classrooms, library and music rooms. District officials says enrollment at the elementary school has increased by 17-percent and will continue to grow creating a space shortage. They add that many classrooms at the high school lack flexibility needed for hands-on teaching and learning. The district would also look to acquire land for future development of a school or outdoor athletic and recreation spaces.
There are two scheduled informational meetings which are followed by a question and answer period and an optional facilities tour. The next meeting is at the high school on March 10th at 7pm and at the elementary school on March 26th also at 7pm. Representatives of the Columbus School District will be our guests on WBEV’s Community Comment on March 10th to discuss the referendum.