Written by: Josie Morwood and Brooklynn Steeves
Pay close attention, because you are going to want to hear this, Raiders! There are going to be some big changes in KCI’s basement over the coming two years. Reporters from The Edge went behind the scenes and spoke to KCI’s principal, Ms. Martin, and a few students to understand what the KCI community should anticipate to see on their daily school day regarding the upcoming basement renovations.
Why is the basement being renovated? How long has this been in the works?
As many KCI students have most likely noticed, the basement and gym area of KCI is not the most accessible or functional space. There are hallways that lead to dead ends and it can be difficult navigating through the maze that is the gyms. The school decided that it would be beneficial to renovate the area to make it more approachable, convenient, and easier to understand, especially for the new grade nines coming in every year.
Ms. Martin explained that the idea for this project had been in the background for a little while, with different people suggesting creative ideas for how it could be accomplished. The idea was not put into motion until the first conversations and meetings in the fall with architects and board staff.
What is the plan for this renovation?
Ms. Martin shared with The Edge the plan for the renovations, stating, “The plan is to reconstruct the basement level of the school. New changerooms, a team room, washrooms, and P.E. office.” Ms. Martin also mentioned that there will be another fitness center along with the original one. She shared that a new gathering area, almost like a lobby, outside of the main gym, will also be constructed. There will be more seating and space available, making it more welcoming and open for teams. As for the gyms, they will stay similar to their current designs, but the plan is to repaint them and eliminate the extra space up at the top.
How will this impact the KCI community? Gym classes? Sports?
Ms. Martin explained that the renovation will be done in three different stages to make sure that the spaces can still be put to use during the building process. She stated, “...The renovation will be done in three different phases, and so, as we move through each phase, we'll open and close spaces to make sure that our programs are not compromised.” Ms. Martin noted that the amount of Phys. Ed. classes next year will stay the same, but there will have to be some changes due to the lack of space, considering there will be gyms closed off for construction. Staff are hoping to use one of the portables as a health classroom and are considering creative ways to “navigate changing spaces” throughout the year.
This project is expected to run for about 18 to 20 months, which would include construction through two summers and one school year.
Potential Roadblocks
While Ms. Martin did not share many concerns for this project, she noted that flexibility will be key when utilizing the basement amidst the construction. She said, “During the renovation, we will have to be flexible and patient because there will probably be noise and dust generated. The renovation will happen in three phases, so we use and close off spaces as needed.”
Collaborative Members of the Project
Ms. Martin revealed that she is most excited about the collaboration aspect of this project. With a renovation as big as this one, Ms. Martin shared that lots of people expressing ideas and opinions will be key.
She explained that there is a big group of people who are involved in making this a reality, including architects, board staff, Mr. Roberts (P.E. department head), Ms. Martin (KCI’s principal), and Mr. Keys (KCI’s vice principal).
Conclusion
Be sure to keep an eye out for the upcoming basement renovations, Raiders! Get ready to see freshly painted walls, bigger spaces, and easier navigation between the gyms, workout rooms, classrooms, and hallway spaces throughout the basement in the near future.