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Renovation project reviewed

GRANADA — Ryan Hoffmann and Dan Thompson, ISC Consulting Inc., presented a summary of the facility project to the Granada-Huntley-East Chain School Board on Thursday.

Hoffmann and Thompson explained what was promised and then delivered. The plan originally consisted of updating the building envelope (roofing, windows, doors and sealant); updating site and grounds (parking lot, landscaping, sidewalks); provide handicap access to all areas of the building; and repairing components of the mechanical and electrical system. Along with those updates, lighting replacements; new loading docks; new casework in science labs (coming soon); new flooring in classroom; and kitchen and cafeteria flooring were added.

The voted-approved referendum aimed to maximize academic and activity opportunities; improve safety and security; and enhance learning environment.

Maximizing academic and activity opportunities was met through two new classrooms added for new programs, as well as a new competition gymnasium for educational and athletic programs.

The improvement of safety and security was reached by a new entry door and hardware being installed; new security and door access system; and new intercom system improved safety and security. GHEC also put in a new fire sprinkler system throughout the entire building; new controlled vestibule and secure entrances; new security and door access system with cameras; new clock system with automatic switch to daylight savings time; and upgrades to the existing bell system.

The enhance learning environment component was achieved by a new 1500 SF Flexible learning area; ability to use various teaching methods and devices in new classrooms and flexible learning area; full-size gym with option of divide for two practice courts and connected to third court; gym capacity of 600 for games; and new technology wiring throughout the building.

With all points of the referendum delivered, other projects took place within budget. Some of these projects will be ongoing/future. These include new science casework and counters; new sound system for gymnasium spaces; new concession stand for gymnasium and common space use; new locker rooms; referee area and staff/coaching office; variety of new furniture; various landscaping and site updates; and sidewalk and parking lot.

Funds remain for additional building items to be completed in the future.

“Having money left over is a true decision made by administration,” said Hoffman. “This was a project very time-effective and is a testament to the school board and staff (of GHEC).”

Superintendent Dale Brandsoy said the project was a success and prevented possible problems from happening in the future. Overall, the project, design and cost was “a job well done,” he said.

In other action at Thursday’s meeting, Principal Mandy Fletcher gave a report stating a committee has met twice to discuss a $10,000 grant received by the district for its Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports effort. It was decided that training would be offered to the full staff this summer.

The grant money also will be used to purchase a Jaguar mascot costume, as well as provide more community events. One of these events will take place 6:30 p.m. today in the gymnasium for students, families and the community, as the movie “Trolls” will be shown. The free event will allow families to come together and get to know one another outside of the school day.

In another matter, 30 Chromebooks were ordered for the pilot program taking place this spring. Mrs. Luhmann’s English class and Ms. Weet’s American history class will use them.

The purpose of the pilot is for the two teachers to answer the questions of “What can we do with this technology?” and “What can we learn now that we couldn’t before?” By developing a knowledge of utilizing skills with which students are familiar, the teachers will have a better understanding of how technology can be effectively used through learning with modification and redefinition.

In another matter, NWEA testing ended in late January, and provided insight through data, according to Fletcher.

“We made some pretty powerful observations and connections from NWEA data and how it connects to our MCA data and goal of essential curriculum,” she said.

Other school news includes:

o MCA testing will begin late March and continue through the first week on May. Mid-May to the end of May will then be the final round of NWEA spring testing.

o The April school board meeting originally scheduled for April 13 will instead be held April 6.

o K-12 conferences will be held 3:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday. This will be the only spring conference night. A 7 p.m. showing of the play “Robin Hood” will be performed by grades 3-5 following conferences. The play will be performed again at noon Feb. 17.

o The board accepted the resignation of Jim Paisley as a high school teacher, effective Jan. 20, and approved a contract for Paisley as the district technology coordinator, IT support and tech integrationist.

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