The Middle School has aging building systems and spaces that no longer fully support current programs. The proposed projects focus on safety, deferred maintenance, and updating academic, dining, athletics and fine arts spaces. 

Projects include renovating and expanding the cafeteria and kitchen, adding a new band hall, updating the gym, modernizing academic areas, improving the main entry for security, and adding exterior classroom windows. 

No. The proposed work does not change grade configurations or increase student capacity. It updates existing spaces. 

The current band space is limited and adjacent to the cafeteria area. A new band hall would allow the cafeteria to function properly while providing appropriate space for the band program. 

No. The bond proposal does not change attendance zones or student assignments. 

No. The proposal focuses on renovating existing support facilities, not building new stadiums or expanding seating. 

Traffic flow and drainage issues affect daily campus operations and safety. These projects address long-standing concerns. 

Improvements include updated roads and parking, and fencing to better define campus boundaries. 

Any access changes would focus on safety during the school day while maintaining appropriate community use. 

The district plans to use bond funds to modernize maintenance equipment and systems in the elementary, intermediate and middle schools, including: Roofing, Finishes, HVAC(air conditioning/heating), plumbing, electrical, and building protection systems. These projects will be prioritized by age and condition.

The current library at Elkhart Middle School is too small for the number of students that attend the school, according to TEA code.

If the election passes, district administration will work with architects, engineers, and a construction company to determine priority of projects with specific cost estimates.

Architects worked with school administration to provide project estimates for projects identified in the fall committee process. These project estimates consider the potential size/scope of a project, as well as cost escalation to complete the project in the future. A full design process will not occur on these projects until after the bond election. Otherwise, the district would have to invest money on the design of a potential project, which has not yet been approved by voters.

The fencing allowance that is provided in the bond would be to provide exterior and interior site fencing for enhanced security for the main school complex (elementary, intermediate, middle). One area that was discussed by the committee was fencing along Parker Street, but the administration will be able to determine exact fencing locations when projects are finalized after the election.

The administration will work with architects and engineers to determine the best improvements for the existing traffic flow after the election.

Although Elkhart ISD is not currently growing rapidly, the recommended building improvements provide increased capacity in the library, cafeteria, and band hall. Additionally, the proposal includes updates to safety (secure entry, fencing) and modernized classrooms with windows.

Current plans do not include overall technology improvements, except in new and renovated spaces where network availability and electrical support will be provided.

Yes, a secure vestibule entry is included in the budget estimate for the middle school project. A secure vestibule includes a second set of doors to force individuals to enter the building through the office.

The project was budgeted for HVAC (air conditioning/heat) improvements and a general refresh of the gym that could include paint, new seating, new scoreboards, etc.

Phasing will be determined between the administration and consultants (architects, engineers, construction company), if the bond passes and projects move forward. The administration has said they will make every effort for the projects to be minimally disruptive to students and staff, but a renovation on an active campus will always experience some disruption.

The specific stage size has not been determined, but the goal would be to have a stage for special events, ceremonies and smaller performances.

There is not a final design for the library. If the bond passes, this new design will be developed with input from school staff and administration.

The committee discussed a courtyard, but this project was not included in the final bond proposal. This project is one that is included in a wish list, if funds are available after the primary projects are budgeted.

The band hall expansion is not expected to impact existing parking, but a final survey and design will be needed to determine how the building will be located on the site. Other bond projects include traffic and parking improvements, which could impact overall parking on the site.

No specifics were determined for the locker room improvements, but there would be an allowance within the overall middle school gym project to address locker rooms.

This will be determined by the administration as part of the gym project, if the bond is passed.

The administration plans to review the needs of middle school science labs when final project budgets are developed.

The new band space would be updated and larger, but pricing also includes space for group practice, practice rooms, offices and storage.

A specific schedule will be developed later in coordination with architects and construction companies, but it is estimated all projects could be complete in about three years.