our challenges
Critical Building Systems Are Aging
Many of our facilities are 70 to 100 years old and no longer meet today's standards for safety, accessibility and learning.
ON THIS PAGE: Austin High School, Ellis Middle School, IJ Holton Intermediate School, Neveln Elementary, Sumner Elementary, Banfield Elementary, Southgate Elementary
Austin High School
Built over 100 years ago, Austin High School is the oldest school in the district and requires the most repairs and upgrades. The building has an outdated boiler, aging electrical and HVAC systems, restrooms and locker rooms that are not fully ADA-compliant, and a fire alarm system that needs upgrades.
Photo: Austin High School includes the Area Learning Center and the Austin Online Academy.
Ellis Middle School
Built in 1957, Ellis Middle School needs new mechanical equipment, improved locker rooms to meet ADA standards, and repairs to pavement and exterior walls.
The Bud Higgins Pool, which opened in 1972, has moisture damage, rust, and a diving well that’s too shallow to meet current standards. The locker areas are also outdated, with no individual showers.
IJ Holton Intermediate School
The boiler, HVAC, and fire alarm system at IJ Holton Intermediate School need upgrades to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment. The sidewalks and pavement are cracked and in need of repair.
Neveln Elementary
Nevln Elementary needs updated electrical systems, restrooms, and fire alarms. The school does not currently have a secure, accessible entrance. Interior doors, ceiling tiles, furniture, lockers, and cabinets need to be replaced. Exterior walls and windows are damaged. Some spaces are underused and would work better as classrooms.
Sumner Elementary
Sumner Elementary fails to meet accessibility standards – for example, the second-floor classroom wing on the south end of the school is only accessible by stairs. The school does not currently have a secure, accessible entrance. Restrooms also need improvements to meet ADA guidelines. The fire alarm system is outdated. Ceilings, flooring, cabinets, lockers, windows, and outer walls need repairs.
Banfield Elementary
The Banfield Elementary restrooms, doors, and playground need improvements to meet accessibility standards. The fire alarm system requires upgrades. Ceilings, doors, floors, lockers, and cabinets are worn down. The roof, windows, and outer walls are aging and damaged. Cracked pavement and curbs need repairs.
Southgate Elementary
The boiler at Southgate Elementary needs to be replaced. Entrances, sidewalks, and restrooms need accessibility improvements. The fire alarm system needs upgrades. Ceilings, flooring, and windows are showing their age. Inner and outer walls have moisture damage.