The Union County Board of Education shared tentative timelines for school building projects at its August board meeting and workshop.
According to Chairman Marty Gibbs, the new middle school is on track to be bid in the spring of 2024, to begin construction in the summer of 2024, to be completed in the spring of 2026, and to open to students in August of 2026. Chairman Gibbs noted that the wings had been rotated 90 degrees to allow for expansion and the sports fields had been relocated on the site.
Director Greg Clay reported that the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) will have 15,000 square feet. The plan calls for beginning construction in November of 2023 with completion by August of 2025.
He also related that an addition to the Union County High School Career and Technical Education will be made for a shop and two classrooms to be located behind the gymnasium. The shop and two classrooms will comprise 25,000 square feet and are totally funded by a grant. At least one of the classrooms is for the new food service class. The estimated timeline will complete the addition by August of 2025.
Maintenance continues on some HVAC units at the high school and Paulette Elementary with some completed and others waiting for parts. The roof project at the high school is progressing. Septic tanks no longer in use on the right of way for the expansion of Maynardville Highway are being removed.
A multitude of other improvements are occurring. Enrollment has increased. Achievement goals are in place with tutoring programs to improve reading and math. Attendance expectations have been established.
Monthly single coverage insurance stipends will be paid for certified and non-certified employees who have retired but are not Medicare eligible due to age.
Over 50 students have signed up for track and field. Students can get one credit for completing a religious course during release time. ICare has received a grant for over $99,000 to combat substance abuse. The board continues to address policy changes.
The next Union County Board of Education meeting will be on September 14 with the workshop at 6 p.m. and the meeting to follow.