MCDONALD School officials take steps to accommodate project

The high school renovation is part of a state project that also includes building an elementary school.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
McDONALD -- Despite some shuffling of classrooms when school starts here next week, officials don't expect major problems.
"We're prepared to deal with it," said Superintendent Robert Bloniarz.
Nine high school classes will be conducted in Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, just more than a block from the high school. The move is to accommodate work being done at the high school.
The project involves renovating classrooms, removing abets, installing a hot-water heating system and air conditioning, lighting and electrical work.
Bloniarz said seventh- through 12th-graders have been instructed to report to the high school auditorium Monday, the first day of school.
"They'll get an explanation of what is expected from them" during the building renovation, Bloniarz said.
Letters also have been sent to parents, informing them about the moves.
"The largest percentage of classes are seventh and eighth grades," Bloniarz said.
Funding: The work is part of a $17 million Ohio School Facilities Commission project that includes building a new elementary school and the eventual demolition of the grade school as well as renovation of the high school.
A grant from the state commission is paying for the bulk of the project, and voters passed a $2 million bond issue to provide the local share.
"With good fortune, everybody will be back in the high school by March," Bloniarz said.
Pupils in the temporary classrooms who eat lunch at school rather than going home will go to the high school for the meal.
"During a regular situation, most of our students go home for lunch," he said. "Only about 10 percent stay in the building for lunch."
Some minor traffic changes also will accommodate the project. The superintendent said Iowa Avenue will be designated one way north during school hours.
dick@vindy.com