There is a lot to be excited about as Morenci Area Schools continues moving forward with the projects approved by our community through the 2025 bond proposal. The bond core team, architects, construction manager, district leadership, and a board member have been working diligently to refine project plans, evaluate costs, and ensure that we are making the most responsible use of the funds entrusted to us by our community.
One of the most exciting parts of this process has been seeing the draft mock-ups and visualizations of what some of these improvements will look like when completed. These renderings are helping us envision the finished spaces and better understand how the projects will improve our schools for students, staff, and families. Draft mock-ups are available on the Morenci Area Schools website.
“As we move from planning into the next phases of the work, we continue to evaluate projects and needs based on current conditions, available funding, construction costs, and priorities. This process is important to ensure that we maximize the impact of every bond dollar” says Jennifer Ellis, Morenci Area Schools Superintendent
Reviewing the Project Scope
The current package of identified projects exceeds the established project budget but includes a full replacement of the Middle School roof, which had previously been identified as a potential alternative project.
After reviewing the roof's age and condition and the anticipated replacement cost, district leadership believes the roof replacement is an important project to include. A full roof replacement would be difficult to complete in the future without bond funds, making this an important opportunity to address a significant long-term facility need.
“The current project costs also include approximately $1.3 million in contingencies, which are required by the state for the project. In addition, interest earned on the bond proceeds is being closely monitored so it can be appropriately planned for and utilized within the overall project scope. As project costs continue to be refined, the district will continue to evaluate available contingency funds and interest earnings to help maximize the impact of the bond dollars,” notes Superintendent Ellis
Continuing to Look Ahead
The bond core team is also monitoring some facility and technology needs that were not previously included in the bond project list. These include tuckpointing brick and caulking and sealing around windows at the Middle/High School, an elementary office remodel, and technology storage and power upgrades.
As construction documents are finalized and bids are received, the district will continue to evaluate these needs alongside the overall project budget. Priorities may shift as we gain additional information about construction costs and the condition of our facilities.
“We are excited to see these projects continue to take shape and appreciate the community's support that made these improvements possible. Our goal throughout this process remains the same: to make thoughtful, fiscally responsible decisions that provide safe, functional, and welcoming learning environments for Morenci students for many years to come” Jennifer Ellis, Superintendent