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The Polk County Board of Education is moving forward with a $6.2 million renovation project at Polk County High School.
At its March meeting, the board agreed to proceed with the project to replace the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system at Polk County High School.
Though often referred to as the county’s “new” high school, the physical plant at PCHS is approaching 30 years of age. In recent years, various components of the existing system have ceased to operate efficiently and effectively, have required extensive repair or have failed despite regular maintenance. The proposed project will improve air flow and quality, mitigate ongoing humidity issues and provide better temperature control throughout the building.
The project also includes the installation of LED lighting throughout the building that will positively impact the learning environment and help save on energy costs.
Polk County Schools will partner with Polk County Government to secure financing for the project, and payments will be made using existing annual funding specifically designated for capital projects. Work is scheduled to begin this summer if the project receives approval at the state level.
“The project will substantially improve the learning environment and ensure Polk County High School will be ready to serve students and the community for another thirty years,” said Superintendent Aaron Greene.
In other business conducted by the board:
• The board participated in its annual budget workshop before the regular meeting and received budget updates and projections for the 2021-2022 academic year.
• Curriculum and Instruction Director Ronette Dill provided information about upcoming summer remediation programs.
• The board adopted a summer assessment plan proposed by Assistant Superintendent Dave Scherping.
• The board approved submission of a Head Start Continuation Grant to secure funding for the district’s Preschool program.
• The board adopted minor administrative changes to the current 2020-2021 calendar to accurately reflect employee workday designations.
• The board voted to move its scheduled April 12 meeting to April 19 to accommodate a financing approval timeline for the PCHS HVAC project and in light of Spring Break falling the week before the regularly scheduled meeting.