LAKEPORT >> Lakeport Unified School District intends to use the Measure T bond program to move its schools into the 21st century with projects to modernize the schools and facilities to enhance the learning environment. The bond measure was voted on in the November 2014 election and awarded $17 million to LUSD for significant and lasting improvements that will benefit all students.
On October 29th, a special meeting was held to present the Master Plan to the LUSD school board for approval. Several projects were presented by Gwin Stumbaugh from TLCD Architecture. TLCD Architecture has been designing architecture and interiors for 50 years and has done many education sites, including sites in Lake County. The bond projects will focus on areas that need improvement, such as ADA compliance, pool complex and tennis court rehabilitation, electrical systems, water/sewer/storm drains and FEMA designated flood areas. Stumbaugh presented plans for new buildings, modernization of existing buildings, a central kitchen located at the high school, a new fitness building, 21st century classrooms and better plans for vehicle and pedestrian circulation.
Dave Norris, Director of Maintenance, Operations and Transportation and Mike Adams, consultant with Education Leadership Solutions, presented how these plans would be implemented. Considerations to prioritize the projects included student needs, safety, and community expectations. The sequence of the projects will be determined by immediate need, school schedules, and cash flow.
Two phases have been created to complete the projects.
Phase 1 consists of a food service facility for Clear Lake High School. This facility will be a central kitchen and may also create opportunities to create culinary arts classes. Terrace Middle School will acquire a new learning center, and a student quad area will be developed. Lakeport Elementary School will get 21st century upgrades to technology and classroom furnishings. These projects will be scheduled to limit school disruptions by utilizing holiday and summer breaks.
Phase 2 will be based on the second sale of bonds and overall cost of construction. This phase includes projects such as rehabilitation of the Westshore pool complex and tennis courts as well as upgrade of the high school and the middle school with 21st century technology and classroom furnishings. There will also be a new fitness facility at the high school to replace the old weight room. Lastly, the vehicle and pedestrian circulation will be improved.
The Master Plan was approved by the school board and all projects are proposed to be complete by 2018.
For more information on the Measure T Bond Program at LUSD, visit www.lakeport.k12.ca.us or call the district office at (707) 262-3000.
