FLORENCE – Kids are walking outside between classes and cramming into old classrooms in Florence which are two reasons why voters will see a school bond request on their November ballot to upgrade Florence Carlton schools.
School officials say that the nearly $16 million bond would remedy a long list of needs and also bring more opportunities to students. The 11 structures on campus range in age of construction from 1959 to 1995.
“We want to make sure that we have a facility that meets our needs and meets the needs of the future,” said Florence Carlton Schools Superintendent Bud Scully.
Some of the current infrastructures on the school campus wasn’t meant to be used like it is now.
For example, the cafeteria that serves over 800 students is a converted snack bar. Meanwhile, the school gym hosts P.E. classes, the cafeteria, the theater, and community groups and events.
Safety is also a concern because students have to go outside to get to class, according to Scully.
“The big thing now is safety of kids and staff. One of the things is our kids have to — in the winter time — [is] put on their boots, put on their gloves, put on their coats, just to go to PE, just to go to music, just to go to art, just to go to the nurse,” he said.
The improvements would also bring ventilation up to building code requirements and decrease maintenance and operation costs. Scully also told MTN News that new K-5 classrooms and a dedicated dining and assembly space would serve the school and community.
Scully added that overall, the improvements would cover technological advances, quality of the infrastructure, and safety. The school district will soon be releasing a pamphlet that details the upgrades and how the issue will appear on the November ballot.
The annual tax increase for owners of a $200,000 home would work out to about $360 if the measure is approved by voters.
-Augusta McDonnell reporting for MTN News
