David Astin, Emma Steinke

What Does The Referendum Have in Mind for the Middle School?

The referendum plans to improve the building as a whole. We all know how crowded the halls are! The referendum’s addition and renovations plan to fix the issue, along with the plan to modernize the building.

The Addition

The addition will be located where we currently have recess, and will include a brand new science wing with four completely modern science rooms for seventh and eighth grade use, a set of restrooms, separate band and choir rooms built with acoustics in mind, a large special education room, and a large multipurpose room.

The Renovation

Many rooms will have walls and dividers removed, making larger and more functional classrooms. Multiple renovations will be made, including mass variations across the entirety of many different rooms and areas. Though all of the renovations will take place strictly on the first floor. In terms of the actual additions or constructions, there will be additions made including a new science wing, of which will also encapsulate the addition of many new student lockers. A new band and choir rooms respectively are also in order, expanding the area available to utilize for student and staff use. In addition, the true expansions extending back into the open area will have the aspects of and additional “Multi-use” room, as well as other various additions. The cafeteria will also be expanded to fit the entire group of 7th graders or 8th graders at once. This will eliminate the need for students to eat in the gym, like this year.

Many of the ‘traveling teachers’ such as Mrs. Lapean and Mr. Stinemates will have permanent rooms, and staff members will receive larger offices.

How will this benefit students?

These both renovations, expansions, additions were made to remove a great deal of overcrowding of students. The addition of the multi-purpose room will provide more flexibility and open options for many varying activities, involving phy-ed. Student will also be able to eat lunch in one space with all of their classmates!

Will Construction Affect Students?

To put it simply, the addition will be started in June, and construction will take precautions to be as quiet and safe as possible for students. The renovation will be more so during school time, and will definitely affect students in classrooms. Students will experience some noise disturbances, and safety measures taken around the building to avoid injury will cause longer commutes to classrooms.

Timeframe?

The new constructions being made in scheduled to begin in June of 2020, avoiding the interference of student learning. The actual renovations to the building will be complete in two years, more specifically, September of 2021, with the entire completion of the buildings district-wide.

Looking Ahead

As not only the middle school is being renovated and construction additions being made, the high school will also receive many changes. Some of these examples may include a newly constructed STEM Wing, along with a new swimming pool, with the previous pool area being repurposed. These renovations will be enjoyed by current middle school students when are attending MHS in the near future!

The student council is also holding a coin drive for families in need of gifts this holiday season! Money was collected during advisories during the past week! MMS students have BIG GIVING HEARTS!