News Headlines

USD 259 Moving Forward With Nine Bond Projects

Reporter: Alicia Myers

USD 259 Moving Forward With Nine Bond Projects

Monday, April 9, 2012

Wichita Public Schools is moving forward with nine projects listed in the 2008 bond project.

"We had to be able to look at our financial situation, as we've had to make some huge decisions over the past few months of how that would impact the plan as we move forward," said Superintendent John Allison.

The schools deemed necessary for changes thus far include Adams Elementary, Black Elementary, Curtis Middle, Hyde Elementary, Jardine Middle, McLean Elementary, OK Elementary, Park Elementary and Pleasant Valley Elementary.

By putting those nine and about 20 more projects on pause, and studying the needs of the district during, and after boundary changes, the district could save $460,000.

The only issue that could come into play is the possibility of FEMA not offering assistance with the district's new shelters. If that happens, the district says it has money set aside to cover the $1.5 million cost.

Plus, funds originally set to go to Bryant Elementary, Emerson Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Mueller Elementary and Northeast Magnet High could be used as well. All five of the buildings are set to close this summer.

"Those will be expenses we won't be moving forward with, which helps us offset potential shelters or other projects that are still on that pause list," said Superintendent Allison. "It's great to be able to add nine more into the schedule as we move forward."

For a list of the projects passed within the 2008 bond issue plan, click here.