Exciting Changes Ahead for Lexingon School District Five!
CHAPIN, S.C. – Big things are happening in the Lexington School District Five! Last Friday, school officials hosted a lively press conference to celebrate the approval of a whopping $240 million referendum. This significant investment not only promises to give existing schools a much-needed facelift and build new facilities but also brings about some changes in how students will be placed in schools.
A Strong Vote of Confidence
On Election Day, the community showed their support loud and clear: 39,612 residents voted in favor of the referendum, while only 16,348 voted against it. That’s an incredible 70% approval rate! Superintendent Akil E. Ross, speaking at the press conference, was clearly thrilled. “We are now moving from the phase of a district plan to the people’s project,” said Ross. “So we are excited to deliver on this.”
It’s Been a Long Time Coming
It’s been a whopping 16 years since the last bond referendum in the district. The idea blossomed back in August last year, and it’s finally coming to life! The funds raised will go towards a host of improvements—think of a brand new Dutch Fork Elementary school and fresh classroom wings for both Lake Murray and Chapin Elementary. Ross pointed out that nearly 24 classrooms are currently separate from the main buildings, raising safety concerns that this project aims to address.
Community Voices Matter
An exciting aspect of this referendum is that students were given the chance to weigh in on what they’d like to see. Ross emphasized the importance of instructional projects that could prepare students for their future careers. “We are looking at introducing AI and digital solutions to help prepare our students for the factories of the future,” he said enthusiastically. The plans also include a new theater at Chapin High School and a focus on entrepreneurship at Irmo High School with a small business incubator.
Safety First!
A significant portion of the funding will ensure a safer environment for students. The plans include the addition of 12 security rooms equipped with advanced weapon detection systems, alongside upgraded security cameras in all schools. Besides security, this money will go towards essential repairs at eight schools, addressing HVAC replacements, roofing repairs, and much more!
The Path Forward
If the referendum hadn’t passed, district officials hinted that they might have had to shift students into the Dutch Fork area, where there’s more space. Thankfully, the community rallied behind this project! To cover the expenses, the funds will essentially serve as debt, but with a plan to pay it back over the next 20 years. The good news? There won’t be a tax increase for the residents, as the threshold only applies for requests exceeding $400 million!
Planning for Success
During the press conference, Superintendent Ross also unveiled his intention to propose a “Citizen’s Advisory Review Team” to the board. This initiative is all about giving community members a voice in the delivery of these projects, keeping everyone in the loop! Ross expressed immense gratitude to everyone involved in the project and shared his eagerness to meet with the new board of trustees to kick off the planning process.
What’s Next?
As the district gears up for these exciting changes, they are making sure to keep everyone informed and connected. This community will undoubtedly benefit tremendously from these upgrades. Exciting times await the students, teachers, and residents of Lexington School District Five!
