Chapin, South Carolina – Lex-Rich Five School Board Considers $240 Million Bond Proposal for School Improvements

Chapin, South Carolina – Lex-Rich Five School Board Considers $240 Million Bond Proposal

The Lexington-Richland Five school board is gearing up to decide on a significant bond referendum that could put a **$240 million** proposal before voters in the Chapin and Irmo areas this November. This potential referendum follows over a year of discussions about the urgent need for facility upgrades and other changes in the school district.

If approved, these bonds would target critical infrastructure improvements aimed at easing overcrowding in local schools, fixing existing issues in grade level structures, and making essential repairs. Superintendent Akil Ross has emphasized that even without the bond funding, changes will be necessary in the district to address current demands.

Key Features of the Bond Proposal

The proposed $240 million would include extensive security enhancements across the district. Plans mentioned include the installation of secure vestibule entrances at 12 schools and upgrades to security cameras at all campuses. Additionally, it will fund the construction of a new Dutch Fork Elementary School and renovations to transform the existing campus into the new Richlex Education Center, which will house important programs including adult education and virtual learning.

If the bond is approved, several schools would receive renovations or expansions, including:

• Renovations at Nursery Road and Seven Oaks elementaries
• Improvements at Dutch Fork and Irmo middle schools
• Enhancements at CrossRoads Intermediate and Dutch Fork High
• Creation of a fine arts center auditorium at Chapin High School.

Challenges Ahead

One of the driving forces behind this bond proposal is the growing student population, particularly in the Chapin area, which has reached nearly full capacity at several schools. The Superintendent mentioned a restructuring plan for the 2026-27 school year to accommodate this growth, potentially affecting how students are assigned to schools.

The district plans to tackle the challenges posed by overcrowding by reconfiguring how students transition from elementary to middle school and from middle school to high school. The introduction of a *new* middle school is also on the agenda, which may help alleviate pressure on Chapin High School.

Community Reaction

Community opinions about the bond, however, are mixed. Some individuals worry about the financial implications, even though the district has promised that the current property tax rate will remain unchanged if the bond is successful. Others are concerned that changes in school zoning will take place regardless of the bond’s approval, which could lead to significant disruptions for families.

The school board will take a vote on May 20 to determine whether the bond question will make it to the ballot. As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on how these changes will ultimately impact students, educators, and families in the Lexington-Richland Five district.

For more updates, residents are encouraged to visit the district’s website for information about school zoning and upcoming meetings related to this critical proposal.