By Lindsey Harrison/WMBD-TV
BLOOMINGTON – Over the next year, Bloomington High School will see $8 million in facility upgrades.
“We keep our debt out there in that 10-12 year range. We’re at another time where we can do this. So, it’s a logical time to do it. And we’re dedicated to doing it in a way that keeps the tax rate flat,” said District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly.
PODCAST: Listen to Scott and Patti’s interview with District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly on WJBC.
The District 87 School Board unanimously approved a bond sale on Wednesday night that will cover infrastructure improvements like a new HVAC system. An artificial turf will be installed on the football field, turning it into a multi-use field. Soccer games and P.E. classes will be able to use it, without fear of wear and tear.
The bonds will also pay for renovations to the fine arts classrooms. Choir and orchestra classes will move into larger, renovated spaces. An addition will also be built to the high school, in order to house its growing band program.
Reilly said keeping up with the fine arts is essential to student well-being.
“I’ve seen it personally in my own family. I’ve seen it in board members’ families, other kids. They make a lot of friends that they keep, not only in school, but for life and they tend to be more successful,” he explained.
The work is scheduled to be done by August 2018.
