Update on the schematic plans for the "new" cres

[wiltonca]

On Tuesday August 19, 2008, commencing at its regular 7 pm meeting, the EGUSD Board of Education will hear an update from the architects and staff on the actual schematic plans for the new CRES campus. Staff will discuss the topography challenges and show its tentative recommendation for the layout of the school, including the traffic patterns in and out of the school. Staff will discuss the issues surrounding the timeline for construction as well as discussing whether the school can remain open while construction occurs. No decisions are being asked to be made at this meeting. I anticipate that the Board will give staff some direction as to how to communicate all these issues to the CRES staff and school community. This update is part of the Superintendent's committment to keep the Board and community fully informed about the project.

[Matthew]

Thank you for the update.

[Luke]

Wilton,

Thanks for the update. I've been critical in the past, so it's only fair to give you an "attaboy" for keeping us informed about the progress of the new school, and keeping the process moving forward.

[MoonMan]

just saw the plans and the CLEAR advisory that the traffic impacts during construction etc, need to be understood.

With that, I am sure there will be days/nights when I'm stuck behind a bull dozer, and I'm cursing (in my head of course, kids in the car ya know), and wondering why in the world did it come to this.

HOWEVER, fast forward to the 25+ years ahead of us with a state of the art, new, and safe school, and I'm first in line to say THANK YOU!

Nothing is ever easily done out here. Always a few complaints (some legitimate, many not). When those come in, don't let this deter you from proceeding. Sure, explore options, but full steam ahead!!!

[2112]

Why are California schools made up of a number of separate buildings? When I was in school in Colorado all the schools were one building. Wouldn't it be cheaper to build the school as one building and you don't have to duplicate HVAC, plumbing, electric, etc... It would also take up less room since you wouldn't have so many buildings to set back from one another.

I know it's too late now, but I would like to hear on explanation.

[MoonMan]

only a guess, but I bet weather has a big part in it. Not a huge need to have hallways to get everywhere, when open air travel to different classes, facilities can be done most of the year out here. A lot of the schools in the foothills are more of the "one building" approach.

[wiltonca]

The EGUSD Board of Education acted at its meeting on September 2, 2008 to adopt the proposed schematic plans for the expanded CRES campus. This action enables the district administration to move forward with specific site construction plans and then bidding for the work. Associate Superintendent of Facilities Rob Pierce advised the Board that, over the next few months, he and other District personnel would be meeting with the planning group spearheaded by Principal Mike Gulden to discuss the construction issues and formulate community input in the decision to move away for a year or stay on site during construction. I encourage all interested parents and other RM residents to attend these meetings as they will be crucial in understandng the complexities posed by keeping school in place during construction. I am very pleased that it appears we are finally getting to a point of actually breaking ground on what will be a shining showcase among our elementary schools.

Brian Myers
Board of Education President

[Creative]

I know it's just a “possibility” that CRES kids will be moved during construction, but most parents I talk with know the reality. CRES kids will be moved. I am not complaining, but we do need to realize this will occur. A new school is in the long term interest of the kids and really the entire community so I understand some pain is needed. I have been racking my brain to see if there is any way to avoid it and I had a thought that I wanted feedback on.

The present plan is to start construction the day after school lets out this year and work over the summer. Then when next school year starts the kids will need to attend another school because construction will not be complete. Why not stop construction at the start of next school year? Then hold off until the next summer to start up again. With a total of six months (two 3 month summer breaks) I am sure you can get the actual construction complete. All the time to get permits and approvals will have been done. The six months would be for construction only.

I understand it will take a year longer to complete the school, but CRES kids would not need to move schools.

[joaquinmurieta]

Although I understand the challenges ahead. I would not be able to put our grandchildren (especially starting kindergarten) on a potential (45 - 50 min) X 2 bus ride for a half day of school. Not questioning the safety or the drivers who are excellent people and not expecting special treatment, but we would seek other alternatives.

[Wilbur]

understandable reluctance particularly with respect to the K-kidz' short day. Is it conceivable that Kindergarten could be conducted in leased space more nearby during that year?