(Harlan) The extensive facilities project for the Harlan Community School District is progressing well. Schools Superintendent Jenny Barnett reports that high school teachers moved into their new classrooms immediately after Christmas break.
In September 2022, school district patrons approved a $22.1 million bond issue to renovate and upgrade all four buildings on campus. Barnett emphasizes that the project aims to create a 21st-century learning environment for students.
The second part of this project is currently underway.
A central focus of the project is the construction of a modern Intermediate School facility, which will double the square footage of the existing building. Barnett mentioned that all five third-grade sections will be located adjacent to each other, allowing teachers to open doors and teach two to three classrooms simultaneously. The building will also have more windows and increased classroom space.
The project also addresses roofing needs at the Middle School and involves modernizing the library.
The primary school, the newest facility in the district, requires minimal work, aside from constructing a handicapped-accessible playground. Barnett expects the entire project to be completed by the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
Additionally, a separate project funded by a school safety grant includes installing a safety vestibule at the middle school. This project is scheduled to begin this summer and be completed by mid-fall.
