This summer has been a season of significant improvements and hard work at our school, marked by a series of essential renovation projects. These efforts were aimed at enhancing the functionality, safety, and overall environment of our facilities. Here’s a recap of what was accomplished:
1. C-Wing HVAC and Roof Replacement
The primary focus this summer was the replacement of two aging 35-year-old rooftop HVAC units in the C-wing. These were replaced with six new units, ensuring better heating, ventilation, and air conditioning for the majority of the wing. This extensive project required all rooms in the C-wing to be completely emptied of furniture, and the suspended ceilings were removed to make way for new ductwork. Alongside the HVAC upgrade, a new roof was installed on the north half of the C-wing, replacing the 33-year-old roof that was long out of warranty. This project was meticulously planned over two years, taking into account material shortages and the extended lead times required to procure the HVAC units.
2. High School Gym Enhancements
In compliance with new regulations, shot clocks were installed in our high school gym this summer. This project, however, opened the door to a series of additional improvements. With a scissor lift already in place to wire the electricity for the shot clocks, we took the opportunity to complete several other upgrades. Four new adjustable backboards were installed for the youth league, and new electric winches with keyed switches were added to five hoops, allowing us to remove the old winches from above the bleachers—a significant improvement in both safety and functionality. The beams in the gym’s ceiling were also scraped and freshly painted—special thanks to Josi Remmers for this contribution! Finally, both gym floors were refinished, giving the space a fresh, polished look.
3. Football Field Goal Post Adjustment and Press Box Repairs
With the switch from 11-man to 8-man football, our goalposts needed to be moved. Taking advantage of this opportunity, we disassembled and repainted them, ensuring they not only met the new specifications but also looked brand new with a durable powder coating. Additionally, we addressed a persistent issue with water leakage in the announcer’s booth at the football field. The damage had affected both the floor and the drywall ceiling in the concession stand. A large section of the floor in the press box was replaced, new carpeting was installed, and the drywall was repaired, ensuring the space is now in top condition.
4. Freezer Replacement
A much-needed upgrade was made to the freezer located just inside the loading dock. The old freezer, original to the school, had a weakening floor and a 4-inch rise that made it difficult to move items in and out. The new freezer is not only larger but also comes with new shelving and a built-in ramp, allowing our staff to cart items in and out with ease, significantly improving efficiency and safety.
5. General Maintenance and Repairs
Beyond these major projects, countless other tasks were completed to keep our school in prime condition. Repairs were made to tables, chairs, desks, bookshelves, lighting fixtures, and suspended ceilings, with close to 200 ceiling tiles being replaced. Walls, doors, door frames, and window frames received fresh coats of paint, adding to the overall refreshed appearance of our school.
These projects were no small feat, and we owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the dedicated team who worked tirelessly to make our school look its best. Special thanks go out to Nancy, Roni, Shayna, Daryl, Kristi, Tylor, Cliff, Catlyn and Kevin. The next time you see them around school, please be sure to express your thanks for their hard work and dedication.
This summer's efforts have truly transformed our school, ensuring it remains a safe, functional, and welcoming environment for all. We look forward to everyone enjoying these improvements in the coming school year.!
