Construction of the new Dolores High School is expected to be completed by the start of the second semester in January, according to a progress report the Dolores School District Board of Education received on Monday.
The new building has made progress in drywall and roofing, and most walls are closed up. A new bus loop is in place, and the commons and agriculture building are also progressing, Matt Prinster, project manager for Artaic Group, said in his report.
Renovations on the current high school finished just in time for the start of school with updated restrooms and remodeled classrooms. The new HVAC system will come online in about 30 to 45 days.
Once high school staff and students move into the new building, the middle school will occupy the renovated high school. The current middle school will be demolished.
Much-needed flood mitigation infrastructure near the secondary school’s football field, which has been in the works for quite some time, is also progressing. This new drainage will help prevent flooding at the school, something that has occurred multiple times in the past.
Most of the stormwater drainage infrastructure near the football field has been successfully installed, including pipe under the future playground and field perimeter. To finish the installation, a connection will be made under 14th Street to the town system. The new playground equipment is tentatively expected to be delivered Aug. 25.
Superintendent Alesa Reed and other administrators reported a successful first day of school, with “few tears” among younger students. The high school reported higher-than-expected freshman enrollment, requiring some adjustments to be made to schedules.
Reed outlined ongoing work on student retention and school culture through clearer communication, cultural sensitivity, conflict resolution, instructional excellence and more. She said these priorities will be reflected in evaluations and staff expectations.
The next Dolores school board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 14.
bduran@the-journal.com
