×

BOE OKs modular classroom move

ELKINS — Plans to use a modular classroom unit to house Homestead Elementary School students moved forward Tuesday, as school officials decided to utilize a two-classroom building that the school system already owns.

Randolph County Board of Education members unanimously approved a plan to update a modular classroom unit that currently is located near the Randolph Technical Center.

The modular unit’s roof and inside walls will be painted, and new paneling and carpet will be installed prior to the upcoming school year, officials said, which will be much cheaper than leasing or purchasing a new unit.

Board members heard during their meeting Tuesday that the unit is structurally sound, and it should be possible to have it moved to George Ward Elementary School in Mill Creek.

“That will be a big savings,” said Board President Donna Auvil.

The board initially considered a plan to lease a modular unit, but the cost for delivery, installation and rental for the upcoming school year would be $55,542.55, according to information provided to the board regarding proposed lease agreements.

Board members said they preferred using a unit the county already owns if it would be possible to move it and bring it within state code requirements.

Incoming Superintendent of Schools Gabriel J. “Gabe” Devono, who officially will start his new position July 1, has been working on modular options in recent weeks. He said Tuesday the existing unit was inspected by the state fire marshal’s office.

“The fire marshal looked at it and everything’s OK; we can use it,” Devono said. “We’re just waiting to see if someone can move it.”

If that is possible, the unit also will need to have utilities set up, and stairs and ramps will have to be constructed, hopefully during July.

Board members voted May 22 to proceed with plans to close Homestead Elementary for the 2018-19 school year and continue housing Homestead students at other local schools for the upcoming year.

The school has been closed since a March 1 windstorm caused severe roof damage, and then the state fire marshal determined this spring that the school cannot reopen without major electrical upgrades.

Board members decided in May to install a modular classroom at George Ward Elementary to allow enough space for each Homestead class to have its own room for the 2017-18 school year.

The next regular Randolph County Board of Education meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. July 11 at the school board office in Elkins

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $3.92/week.

Subscribe Today