The delayed completion of the new junior high activity center may be near the end, as the Poplar Bluff R-I School Board learned the planned completion date is now Nov. 4.
Originally scheduled to be ready for the beginning of this school year, construction was delayed due to many factors, including rainy weather and delays in roofing materials.
Despite frustration at the changing estimates for completion, the board approved payment 11 on Sept. 19 for the activity center to CE Norton Inc. for $265,487.79.
In contrast, the new Culinary Arts Center at the Technical Career Center is proceeding along a fast schedule, with completion anticipated in late November or early December of this year.
The board approved the culinary arts payment four to Zoellner Construction for $53,954.47. They also approved a grant administration payment of $14,423 to Ozark Regional Planning Commission.
The new center is funded in part by a Community Development Block Grant, which the commission facilitated in cooperation with the school district.
Two schools will see new playground equipment, as the kindergarten center will receive equipment with a shorter profile to better suit the needs of those younger students, according to the discussion.
New equipment will also be installed at Lake Road Elementary to replace one of the playground structures that has been taken out of service. The estimated cost for both replacements is approximately $50,000.
The board approved the second Siemens Fire Alarm protection payment for $56,501 and the first PBHS HVAC replacement payment to Buffington Brothers for $33,000.
Due to the success of the Pom Squad, increased participation and events has warranted the approval of an assistant pom coaching position, which will be filled in the future.
The board also approved the district’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan for 2023-2028, which identifies four goals for improvement, with each goals containing four action items, all of which are targeted at increased achievement in teaching and learning.
The district’s next Collaboration Day, which means no classes for students, will be held on Friday, Oct. 6.
The next regular meeting of the Board of Education is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 19.