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Survey results inform G-R facility assessment process

More than 300 residents of the Gladbrook-Reinbeck Community School District provided their input and feedback on the district’s facility needs through a recent survey.

The survey allowed community members to review the district’s needs, share what they consider to be the highest-priority items and provide input on how the district and school board can best move forward. Respondents also had an opportunity to view the estimated property tax impact of a potential bond issue.

According to the survey, residents consider the highest-priority needs to be HVAC system upgrades in both district buildings, making every restroom and floor level handicap accessible, adding a fire sprinkler system at the Junior/Senior High School, gym expansion at the Jr./Sr. High School and a new elementary student commons and collaboration space.

Additional needs include adding an elementary gym, adding two Early Childhood classrooms, replacing the roof on the Industrial Technology Center, main office/secure entry improvements at the Jr./Sr. High School and upgrades to mechanical and laundry facilities.

In addition, 77 percent of respondents said they strongly agree or agree that the district’s facility needs should be addressed now. About 63 percent indicated they would approve of a potential bond vote question if it addressed the district’s needs while having a property tax impact of less than $15 per month on a home with an assessed value of $100,000.

“We want to thank all the community members who took the time to complete our survey and provide us with their thoughts on how we can best move forward to address our schools’ most pressing facility needs,” Superintendent Erik Smith said. “The board and district leaders will use this feedback as we determine next steps. We are confident that, together, we will find the best-possible solutions to the facility challenges as we plan for the future of our local schools.”

The Gladbrook-Reinbeck Community School District is considering a facilities renovation project that would help maximize the opportunities to deliver and enhance educational experiences for students. To date, the district’s facility planning has covered more than 18 months to develop a long-range plan that evaluates needs and considers potential solutions.

The community-wide survey was open from January 27 to February 9.