Lawrence School Board Considers Remodeling Proposal for Woodlawn Elementary

News Summary

The Lawrence school board plans to review a $207,749 proposal for renovations at Woodlawn Elementary School. The plan includes adding a restroom and exit for the preschool classroom. This funding, sourced from capital outlay funds, will support essential upgrades to enhance early childhood education. The board will also evaluate additional proposals related to technology and educational resources during their upcoming meeting.

Lawrence School Board to Evaluate $207,749 Remodeling Project for Woodlawn Elementary

The upcoming meeting of the Lawrence school board will focus on a significant remodeling proposal for Woodlawn Elementary School, where a total of $207,749 is being considered for necessary interior upgrades. This proposal highlights the district’s commitment to expanding preschool facilities ahead of plans to open new preschool classrooms in the 2025-2026 school year.

Details of the Remodeling Proposal

The board will assess a bid aimed at enhancing the learning environment, which includes the construction of a new restroom and an additional exit for the preschool classroom. The primary cost associated with the remodeling will amount to $161,590 dedicated to the preschool interior work. The total proposed budget also accommodates a contingency fee of 10%—around $16,159—and an architectural fee totaling $30,000.

Funding Sources

Funding for this remodeling initiative will derive from capital outlay funds, which are designated for building and facility improvements. This funding strategy aligns with the district’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational infrastructure in response to community needs and expectations.

Future Plans for Preschool Education

Aside from the remodeling project, the school district is actively planning to launch preschool classrooms at both Sunflower and Woodlawn elementary schools. This strategic move underscores the district’s focus on improving preschool education, ensuring access for more children in the local community.

Broader Agenda for the School Board Meeting

The remodeling proposal is just one item on a comprehensive agenda for the school board meeting, which is set to occur at 6 p.m. on Monday at the district’s offices. Members will also consider several other initiatives, including:

• Purchasing ParentSquare communication software for $43,128, designed to streamline communication between families and staff.
• Investing up to $200,000 in protective cases for student MacBook Air laptops and iPads.
• Renewing PowerSchool software at an estimated cost of $350,000 to support everyday operational and instructional functions.
• Renewing Mosyle Manager software for $104,500, which enhances security protocols for Apple devices.
• Approving an agreement for fire alarm system maintenance with Tech Electronics of Kansas at a cost of $76,522.
• Renewing services for the Cisco phone system and Webex network at an annual fee of $66,670.
• Entering into a service agreement with Logicalis Inc. for network infrastructure support worth $32,745.
• Renewing Microsoft licenses for approximately $66,215.
• Continuing with ClassLink site licenses and software for $45,726.
• Renewing security camera software from American Digital Security for an estimated $43,200.
• Establishing a one-year agreement for Webex support with Logicalis Inc. for about $25,000.
• Renewing the Frontline Professional Learning Management System for $32,195, which monitors educator development.
• Managing maintenance and IT work orders through FMX software at a cost of $28,444.
• Electing a new president and vice president for the school board.
• Appointing key board officials, including roles for clerks and treasurers.
• Designating Brad Finkeldei as legal counsel at the rate of $150 per hour.

Community Participation Opportunities

Residents wishing to express their opinions or seek further information about the proposed projects are encouraged to sign up in advance via email by 6 p.m. on Monday. They can choose to participate either in person or virtually through Webex video/phone conferencing.

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Additional Resources

• Lawrence Journal World: Lawrence School Board to Review $207,749 Renovation Proposal for Woodlawn Elementary School
• You Are Current: Mission Accomplished for Lawrence Township School District
• Lawrence Times: LHS Ribbon Cutting
• Bloomberg: What Can Cities Do with Closed School Buildings
• You Are Current: Living Through the Construction
• Wikipedia: Education in the United States
• Google Search: School Renovation Projects
• Google Scholar: Educational Building Renovation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Renovation
• Google News: School Facility Improvements