Randolph County Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Phares is heading out to several county schools to host a series of community forums to take input from the community on upgrades at the schools.
"They will be very structured," he said. "The intent of the forums is get input for architectural and engineering designs for the schools."
The forums are a continuation of forums over the summer where Phares took input on $23,492,057.03 worth of renovation projects are located at Beverly Elementary, Coalton Elementary, Harman, Homestead Elementary and Tygarts Valley High/Middle schools.
"MES and Blackwood Associates will report to the board and the public," he said.
"They will then allow a time for questions from the community and board members."
Over the summer, Phares took input on the projects and now changes have been made to the projects.
At Beverly Elementary, the project includes a new cafeteria, site work, interior renovations, equipment, a sprinkler system and asbestos abatement and estimated $2,919,056.83.
The project at Coalton Elementary would be opening the second floor of the building which would include a new stairwell and elevator at a cost of $3,302,293.42. The school would also have renovations to the wall facing, windows, new fire alarm and wiring and gymnasium upgrades.
Improvements at Harman School include a new cafeteria and music room along with interior and exterior renovations. The total project cost is $4,529,893.53. Renovations include painting, HVAC, fire alarm, wiring and restrooms.
Renovations at Homestead Elementary are slated to cost $3,550,650.98.
At Tygarts Valley Middle/High School renovations include a new gymnasium and auditorium at an estimated cost of $9,190,156.72.
Phares said once the input is taken from the board and the community the costs could be adjusted.
"It is in hopes for the board to take input in anticipation of funding these projects," Phares said. "The board will be provided with different funding options."
Phares explained the community schools are the second priority on the Comprehensive Education Plan (CEFP). Third Ward Elementary School was the number one priority on the list and is currently undergoing renovations.
"If they combine the projects a portion of the funding would have to come from a bond with a match from the SBA (West Virginia School Building Authority)," he said. "It is too early to determine if the board will run a bond."
Phares said he hopes everyone who are interested in the projects come to the meetings and discuss their issues with the board.
"I hope everyone understands how genuine the board and the superintendent are about coming and talking," he said. "This board has been very open and transparent during my tenure. This is how a board makes good decisions.
All the meeting are slated to begin at 6 p.m. The forums schedule is: Feb. 9 at Beverly Elementary, Feb. 16 at Homestead Elementary, Feb. 22 at Harman, Feb. 23 at Coalton Elementary and Feb. 29 at Tygart Valley High/Middle School.
Contact Anthony Gaynor by email at agaynor@theintermountain.com.
