Published: August 14, 2008 04:03 pm            

SCHOOLS: District may need bigger classrooms

Three fourths of the district's "early childhood" classrooms are undersized, according to Cannon Design architect Roland Coleman.

His remarks came during his second presentation to the GI school board regarding the district's ongoing capital improvement study.

The firm still has a lot of research to absorb before it makes final recommendations.

Superintendent Robert Christmann praised school principals for knowing their buildings inside and out and providing Coleman with the information Cannon will need to determine the district's most pressing needs.

"This is a major investment and we need to get it right," Coleman said.

During the meeting it was mentioned to keep in mind the Island district isn't the firm's only client. Coleman said, "Mr. Cannon reminded us that Grand Island is in their front yard."

Other considerations include common start times for the high school and middle school as well as cutting many extra bus runs.

A large transportation committee is also looking into that. Christmann encouraged Coleman to attend one of their meetings.

In other news, a change in the town's assessments has created a likewise change in the town's tax levy.

"These things happen once in a while," said Lorraine Ingrasci, Assistant Superintendent of Finance.

A difference of $110,000 occurred after someone challenged their assessment.

The district said it would announce former vice president Jim Hanna's replacement at Monday's workshop session.

Christmann also announced the formation of a joint town/school environmental board.

        

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