Exciting $240 Million Bond Approved for Lexington-Richland 5 Schools to Enhance Safety and Facilities

Exciting Changes Coming to Lexington-Richland 5 Schools!

Lexington, SC – Big news is coming to the schools in the Chapin-Irmo area thanks to a recent vote! A whopping $240 million bond referendum has been approved by an impressive 70% of voters, marking the first such funding since 2008. With this significant financial boost, the Lexington-Richland 5 school district is setting its sights on some exciting projects to enhance education and safety for its students.

Community Advisory Team to Keep Things Transparent

In an effort to ensure that the funds are spent wisely and transparently, district officials are assembling a new citizens advisory review team. This group will play a vital role in overseeing the use of these funds. Superintendent Akil Ross expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with community members, stating, “We have trust to earn.” He emphasized the importance of having an active role for citizens in the delivery of these projects.

Ross is also engaging with superintendents from Dorchester 2 and Beaufort County, who have successfully created similar groups in their districts. This openness reflects a commitment to keeping the community informed and involved every step of the way!

What’s on the Agenda?

With the approval of the bond, Lexington-Richland 5 plans to issue these funds in three segments over three years. What can residents expect to see?

• Safety Enhancements: One of the primary focuses will be on upgrading safety measures in schools. This includes installing new security vestibules at school entrances, ensuring that visitors can only enter the building after being screened by an administrator. Additionally, new security cameras will enhance the safety of students and staff.
• New Schools and Facilities: A brand new elementary school, costing about $41.4 million, is on the list, as well as other improvements at Chapin and Lake Murray Elementary Schools. This will help replace portable classrooms currently in use.
• Innovative Learning Spaces: The bond will fund numerous educational projects, including a $30 million small business incubation center at Irmo High School, a $10.5 million construction and infrastructure workforce development lab, and an $800,000 digital solutions and artificial intelligence lab at Dutch Fork High School.

Ross mentioned, “We know tomorrow’s workforce is in the classroom today.” With these new resources, students will be better equipped for the jobs of the future.

Moving Forward with Efficiency

When it comes to construction and renovations, the district is aiming to move quickly. Ross stated that he’s eager to get students out of the current Dutch Fork Elementary School site before planned expansions along Broad River Road create potential safety issues. As he put it, “Do you want to pull the bandaid off slow or fast?” He noted that principals prefer a faster timeline to reduce disruptions for students.

What Comes Next?

The newly elected school board will finalize the makeup of the citizens advisory team after an official bond approval during their meeting on November 18. As plans unfold, residents can anticipate more updates and community input opportunities.

As Lexington-Richland 5 starts this exciting new chapter, it looks like there’s so much to look forward to for students and families in the Chapin-Irmo area. The promise of improved facilities and a focus on safety and innovation is definitely something to smile about!