Vicksburg-Warren school renovation projects are under budget

The many school renovation projects in the Vicksburg-Warren School District are on track and under budget, according to Gary Bailey of Dale Bailey Architects.

At Thursday’s regular monthly School Board meeting at Vicksburg High School, Bailey reported the city had finished the new water line to VHS. That water line, along with the rain, has slowed construction somewhat, but Bailey said construction is still on target to have students in the new part of the facility this spring.

VHS needed some additional asbestos tile removed and a request was made for an additional $108,669. Apparently, Albert Love, the asbestos consultant hired by the board, missed about 45,000 square feet of asbestos tile. The board expressed grave concern and mentioned a possible discussion with board attorney Briggs Hopson on the matter.

The Academy of Innovation is moving at a rapid pace, Baily said, and he praised educators who have endured construction and putting up with a lot of noise and distractions. “This is an awkward time for educators,” he said, “and y’all are doing a great job.”

Bailey went on to declare “every project in the entire district is under budget.”

The expansion and renovation of Bowmar Avenue Elementary School has moved one step closer with the award of a $5.144 million contract to Brookhaven contractor Paul Jackson & Sons. Since it is a historic building special provisions and costs are at play.

The board’s financial report indicated a healthy operating fund despite the $1.4 million in shortfalls due to Entergy’s Baxter Wilson power plant devaluation and reduced revenue.

February’s board meeting is traditionally School Board Appreciation Day. To start the meeting, each school presented a token of appreciation to a chosen board member along with a short speech or presentation. The positive energy in the room was infectious. First up was Ryan Nelson, showing his appreciation to James Stirgus, Jr.

Ryan Nelson: “Today you see me as a student. One day I hope you will see me as an accomplished lawyer.” Also pictured is Briggs Hopson, an accomplished lawyer.

Each school also presented its updated school instruction plan. Those plans can be found on the district’s website.

Kimble Slaton, Alonzo Stevens, James Sturgis, Sally Bullard and Bryon Pratt were joined by Board attorney Briggs Hopson and Assistant Superintendent David Campbell for February’s board meeting.