Board of Education Approves $5.9M South Edmonson Elementary Expansion and Renovation

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
On Thursday, May 15th, the Edmonson County Board of Education voted to approve bids presented by Alliance Corporation to begin an expansion and renovation at South Edmonson Elementary School. This will be the first major renovation since the school was constructed in 1999.

The project will consist of replacing heat pumps, exhaust fans, parking lot renovations, a complete library renovation, the addition of eight new classrooms, two additional sets of restrooms, and a roof project to repair extensive roof leaks throughout the building. 

"The school district is eager to begin this project as soon as the children are on summer break," stated Callie Belliles, Director of Facilities and Safety of Edmonson County Schools. "Efforts are already being made to clean out the library in anticipation for its expansion and facelift."

Josh Long, building principal, commented on the project. "I'm extremely thrilled for construction to get started at South Edmonson. We are all very eager for the opportunity to prepare students from Kindergarten through 6th grade. Something else that makes this construction exciting is that the library will be completely renovated and remodeled, which the students will really love."

SEES Librarian Lauren Parrigan shared her enthusiasm by stating "As the librarian at South Edmonson, I am so proud of our upcoming library renovation. This updated space will give our students a place to explore, create, and fall in love with reading all over again. It's such an exciting time for our school."

According to Belliles, Alliance will begin work at the beginning of June. The Board of Education, alongside South Edmonson, will host a groundbreaking ceremony on June 14th to mark the beginning of a 14-month renovation and construction time span.

"The Board expresses their gratitude to Sherman Carter Barnhart, Alliance Corporation, STW Engineers, Baird and Arnold Consulting and Engineering for their efforts in planning and preparing this opportunity for our students," said Belliles.

According to Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools, Brian Alexander, the estimated total cost of the major project will be $5.9 million.