Elementary Renovation Phase I approved

Published 12:45 pm Friday, October 6, 2017

AnnMarie Bianchi, a senior at Harlan High School, was recently honored at a Harlan Independent School Board meeting for outstanding academic achievement. Bianchi was chosen to represent HHS at the 2017 Governor’s Scholar Program at Morehead University.

The Governor’s Scholar Program is an intensive five-week summer residential program that recognizes exceptional students in Kentucky who are rising seniors. The Program strives to enhance Kentucky’s next generation of bright minds as civics and economic leaders.

AnnMarie is the daughter of Philip and Missy Bianchi. She is pictured receiving her plaque of recognition from Harlan Independent Superintendent, Charles Morton.

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Bianchi felt the experience strongly encouraged her to focus on her goals after High School commenting, “After participating in the Governor’s Scholar program I am just ready to begin my college career now. The whole experience was life changing and it only fueled my excitement to attend college. I met a lot great people and am very thankful that I was selected to attend.”

Kevin Cheek and Allison Commings, architects from Sherman, Carter, Barnhart were on hand to outline Phase I of the Harlan Elementary School renovation project. Schematic design documents were shared with the board as well as a tentative phasing plan of work.

The board gave preliminary approval for the draft BG-1 in the amount of $1,508,000 in cover the costs of the renovation which is set to include, ceiling tile, lighting, electrical and data wiring, and HVAC throughout the facility.

Architect Kevin Cheek noted, “This is just phase one of a multi-phase project that could eventually touch most of that building. It is going to take some time to complete, but we want to make sure our master plan for the district is well thought out and gives full consideration to the educational experience for kids. While it will be inconvenient, every effort will be made to limit and minimize disruption to student instruction. We have done this in my places and are experienced in working within these parameters.”

The project has a tentative start date of January, 2018 and completion date of August, 2018.

Superintendent Charles Morton said he is very pleased with the way things are progressing, “I am so thankful for speed at which we are moving and the plan the architects have put together to make this happen. We have to keep our eye on the prize during the challenging times, but in the end, I am certain we will have a more efficient learning space for our school community. This building has not seen a significant renovation since it burned when I was in the 6th grade. The Board has recognized the need and put a plan together to address the needs.”

In other action the board:

• Approved the 2018 Consolidated Planning Funding Assurances.

• Approved an Instrumental Music Support Staff contract.

• Approved the Pay Period Schedule

• Approved the Elgin Dental Program Agreement

• Approved the creation of Instructional Aide position

• Accepted a Deed of Conveyance for donated property

• Approved the monthly financial report