Sara Sandstrom-Kobi, Nederland. Seeing electricians, plumbers, painters and construction workers has become normal for students and staff at Nederland schools. While the elementary students walk around some projects, much of the middle/high school projects are behind-the-scenes.

At the secondary school, extensive plumbing is taking place and the kitchen is one of the main focuses right now. There will be a new look for the art and industrial science areas as well.

At the elementary level, metal trim continues to be painted throughout the school. Painting has also begun in the gymnasium. New and improved lighting in the hallways has made walking from class to class a brighter experience.

Work at both schools will be moving outside as well, as the spring weather permits. At the middle/high school, much needed storm drainage will be improved. At the elementary school, there will be trees planted and resurfacing of playgrounds.

John Sinnett is BVSD’s project manager. He says that there has been a huge effort to keep construction odors at a minimum in schools throughout the building project. He is also very impressed how the maintenance staff at both schools have kept up with maintenance throughout the years.

As soon as school lets out for the summer break, both schools become complete construction zones. Skylights will be replaced at the elementary school. Also, major changes will be happening in the front office area and preschool. The middle/high school will continue to be remodeled with a lot of work being done for a new kitchen.

There has been a tremendous amount of planning and flexibility on everyone’s part to give our Nederland schools much needed improvements and a fresh look. It will be thrilling to return in August and see the work complete!

(Originally published in the May 2, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)