Progress at new schools in Leoti

Things are moving right along. If you check back even once a day, you'll probably see something new that was not there the day before.

Dirtwork was done just to the west side of the former VO-AG building. Once the ground was leveled, concrete was poured that will be used for parking places some day soon.

Windows are currently being removed from above the bleachers in the old junior high gym. It was determined that not only was air escaping inside and outside even when the windows were closed, but water was also entering into the gym during rain storms, etc. Once a window is removed, it is replaced with glass blocks. The light will still get through but no air or moisture will.

Not only has work been done in the new schools and the gym of the old junior high but major work was done in the high school gym over the summer. Once basketball games start up, I think that ball fans from both Wichita County and whatever county whom we are playing will be quite impressed at what they will find on the gym floor. A great deal of work needed to be done on the floor for general maintenance purposes. Before the coats of wax were applied, the Wichita County High School's medallion of an Indian was added to the floor. After that, it was coated with varnish for protection and then wax.

I have not had the opportunity to see it yet but others have told me that it is exceptional and should generate much pride from Wichita Countians--past, present and future. Other area schools have had their medallions on their gym floors for years now. I think that it will be a nice thing that we will have one also.

So, as you can see, work continues practically around the clock on our scbool building project. Contractors believe that the schools will be completed and ready for students before Winter. Students will not be moved into the new buildings until the 2011-2012 school year. Well, that is sorta the plan. Actually, there will be a 3-day moving process that will take place right after school lets out for the summer. It is assumed that the school will rent flat bed trucks to move the many pieces of furniture to their new location. I HAVE NOT heard that directly from school officials. It is just word around town.

Anyway, as a parent of daughters who are currently enrolled in our school system, it is a pleasure to see the building of the new schools and the updating of older schools. I might also add that I am very pleased with Dr. James Hardy, the school superintendant, for spending MANY hours trying to find the best and most economical way of getting new buildings here that would not require major tax increases to the people of Wichita County. Dr. Hardy, you've done a GREAT job and we salute you!!!

VLE-B