Charles City High School was built in 1960 and hasn’t had any major work done to it in the over six decades since.Â
The school district hoped to change that with a $28.5 million bond referendum, including about $19 million to revitalize the building, but the measure was voted down in November.
That’s School Board President David Schrodt, who stressed during Monday (01.08) night’s Board meeting that the school district needs to be frugal with its spending on whatever they do next for facility improvements.
New Board member Bruce Koebrick agreed with that approach.
Among the priorities identified by Schrodt: upgrades in the school kitchen and the HVAC systems, which includes replacing an outdated boiler system in use since 1997.Â
Board member Josh Mack acknowledged their importance, but so is giving a facelift to the learning environment for students.
Mack also noted that when Charles City school facilities pale in comparison to schools like Mason City and Waverly, families may opt to not move into the Charles City School District.
Schrodt countered that continuing to improve the district’s academic performance would offset the aesthetics.
