Mount Pleasant School Board members met last night for their site & policy meetings. During their meeting they reviewed the proposed infrastructure improvements funded through the Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) penny sales tax, which generates approximately $2.2 to $2.5 million annually based on state-wide sales and district enrollment. The funds support physical plant improvements, equipment purchases, and vehicle acquisitions.
The board is set to revisit the proposal during the work session on March 24, with final approval expected in April.
Central Office Lease Renewal
The committee also reviewed a proposed one-year lease extension for the central office space. The current lease, which began in 2022, is set to expire on August 1. The new proposal from the landlord includes a rent increase from $3,600 to $3,865 per month, totaling $46,380 annually.
Given ongoing facility master planning efforts, the committee agreed that a one-year extension is a suitable short-term solution while determining the feasibility of relocating central office operations to the district’s central campus.
Henry County Fuel System Upgrade Proposal
The school board committee reviewed an initial proposal from Henry County to upgrade its fuel system at an estimated cost of $145,000 to $160,000. The district, which currently sources fuel from the county, would be responsible for approximately 25% of the cost based on annual usage.
School District Weighs Expansion, Funding, and STEM Growth
The local school board discussed their master plan update as the district is considering facility upgrades to address growing student needs. Plans include expanding Van Allen to support early childhood education, improving traffic flow at multiple schools to ease congestion, and upgrading athletic facilities on campus and at Maple leaf stadium, to enhance student and community access.
Funding remains a challenge, with an estimated $10–11 million shortfall. The district is weighing a two-question bond proposal, which could impact property taxes. The first question would cover essential improvements, while the second would address additional upgrades, depending on voter approval.
In an effort to strengthen STEM education, the district is seeking grants and partnerships to modernize classrooms and integrate advanced technology into curriculum. Community input will play a key role in shaping the final plans. The next public School Board meeting will be Monday March 10th in the media center at the Mount Pleasant High School. A work session meeting will be March 24th to discuss the Facilities Master Plan in detail.