Bond projects soon to be underway

It is an exciting time for the Bartlesville Public School District. On September 17, the Bartlesville Public School District Board of Education officially authorized the sale of $4 million in bonds as part of the $12.675 million bond vote that passed on August 28. This authorization allows us to begin some of the projects that we outlined in the August bond election.

The sale will officially take place on October 4 and funds will then become available on approximately November 13. Over the

seven year term of the bond issue, the funds will have a great impact on our district.

I am most excited about the opportunity to begin formulating the official plans for the new early childhood education center at Richard Kane Elementary. Throughout the process, we will be engaging a committee of teachers at Kane to ensure we have the best design possible. It will be a great feeling to see the potables taken down and witness the start of construction at Kane. So many students will benefit for years to come from the new classrooms.

Custer stadium will also see work begin in the near future. Safety handrails will be installed along with new lights and

a new sound system. Restrooms and concessions will also be constructed on the stadium’s east side to allow our patrons to

have the proper facilities. We look forward to creating a better place for people to enjoy a game or watch their son or daughter walk across the stage at graduation.

As part of the first bond sale, transportation will also receive funds. This money will allow the district to begin replacing aging buses and transportation vehicles. Replacement of buses and vehicles will be ongoing throughout the life of the seven year bond issue, but it is vital that we begin the process now.

I look forward to starting the various projects throughout the district over the next several months and years. I know

we will be able to enhance the student learning experience in our district and maintain the excellence for which we are

known. Without the passage of the bond issue in August these projects would not be possible.