The Prairie Central Board of Education has chosen a path forward for facilities in the district.
During Monday night’s special board meeting, the group chose what was referred to as the “New 3” plan with a new PK-4 building at a location in or around Fairbury to be determined.
This calls for the retirement of PC Primary West in Chenoa, Primary East in Chatsworth and PC Elementary in Fairbury while keeping the Upper Elementary, Junior High and High School.
“To me, that’s where we work forward from,” said board vice president Tim McGreal.
“I agree. That’s the one I’m leaning towards,” stated board member Ben Stoller.
The Phase 1 total cost is $65.4 million.
When the board gets more into the financial side of things, Superintendent Paula Crane and District Financial Officer Cheryl Hoffman would like to share information.
This plan could lead to adding fifth grade to the new building down the road but, for now, fifth and sixth grades remain at the Upper Elementary.
“I don’t think anybody is going to be opposed to keeping that UE intact,” added McGreal.
According to Damien Schlitt with BLDD Architects, a new school would need to have 15 to 20 acres to make it work and 20 acres would allow the ability to add a future fifth grade wing. If the building went on the current property of PCE, it would likely need to be in the back where the ball fields are.
At the start of the meeting, board president John Wilken addressed a question raised by the public at the previous meeting about what happens if a referendum fails.
“I guess the very, very short answer would be nothing happens,” he said. “I hope some grace permeates the process and good common sense can prevail.”
Since plans call for closing the Chenoa school, board members discussed what to do for a performing arts center or stage area. Crane talked with choral director Todd Cheek and said the Upper Elementary is an option. The school has a curtain but no permanent elevated stage. Another option includes creating a stage in a new school gym.
“Once you decide on stuff like that, a lot of refinement would need to happen,” Crane explained.
Another special meeting on facilities is scheduled for Monday, July 29 starting at 7 p.m. in the Prairie Central High School library. Expected talking points include finances and property. Any property discussion involving negotiations needs to be held in closed session.
An additional meeting is slated for Tuesday, July 30 and possibly Thursday, August 1.
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