New Hanover County School Board holds work session to discuss the future of NHHS
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - The school district just spent $8 million on a renovation project for the century-old school. Administrators today discussed the future of the high school and what the plans will look like.
Multiple options were presented to the board earlier this summer about whether to tear down the school and build a new one or to build additions to the existing structure.
"One of the things the county commissioners and the board asked was what would it cost to create a whole new building in a new space? Just more of a cost comparison thing. The problem with that is that land is at a premium, and to have that much space would require a huge logistical problem of its own," said County Superintendent, Dr. Chris Barnes.
Dr. Chris Barnes says he is in favor of using the hybrid option, which cuts the work into phases.
"So if you ask my opinion, of course, I think a phased-in approach that does this over time, obviously, the building is over 100 years old, it didn't get to where it is overnight, and I don't think the fix should be done overnight either. So I think pacing ourselves and doing things in a way that is systematic, efficient, and safe are the primary concerns," said Dr. Barnes.
Phase one would address issues like securing the perimeter, building a new cafeteria, and classroom space.
Dr. Barnes says it would not only allow students to attend school while the work is being done, but also give the renovations the time they need.
"A phased-in approach allows us to build something so that there is a movement for the kids to be able to go while you build the next thing...I think one of the things that is of critical importance is making sure we have the best educational environment for students, and that it's in a safe and secure environment. Most of the projects that were targeted today are specifically focused on increasing the safety, the perimeter control, and making sure we're creating spaces for students that are safe and inviting," said Dr. Barnes.
Right now, the county is looking at a roughly $300 million bond.
Dr. Barnes says this process wouldn't be possible without the cooperation between the county and the school board.
"I want to emphasize how important it is that our county commission and our board are working together to look at a bond that is that expensive. How do we do that in a way that capitalizes on the efficiency that we have to make sure we're being good stewards of the money we're being given, and also reflect on how we make sure that the burden isn't all taxed onto the taxpayer, how do we make sure the students, and the community, are benefitting," said Dr. Barnes.
The board hopes to have a decision on how to move forward at their next regular meeting in early October.