Dear Kirby School District 140 families,
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to address the decision made by the school board at their December 14, 2023 meeting regarding the construction of a new Fernway Park Elementary School. Citing rising costs and long-term financial stability as significant factors, the Board rejected the bids it received for the construction of the new school. I understand there might be concerns or questions surrounding the Board's decision, and I hope to clarify this matter.
The decision not to build a new Fernway Park Elementary School was not made hastily or without careful consideration of all factors. Our primary goal has always been to ensure the best possible educational environment for our students while being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us by the community.
Several factors influenced this decision:
Cost Considerations: The bids received have substantially exceeded the budget allocated for this project. Originally estimated at approximately $34 million, the new school is now projected to cost more than $49 million. The bids reflect a significant increase in materials and labor costs over our 2021 estimates. Ensuring fiscal responsibility is crucial, and the Board must weigh the costs against the long-term benefits and financial stability of the District.
Quality Educational Programming and Long-Term Financial Outlook: The Board must ensure quality educational programming and the long-term financial stability of the District. Initially, the District’s cash reserves were projected to be at $27 million after the new school was built. This translated into having a little over 6.5 months of operating expenses remaining in cash reserves. The new estimates for replacing Fernway would put our projected cash reserves below $12 million. Building the new school at this time could require the District to cut teachers, support staff, and educational/extracurricular programming in the future. The Board must prioritize not only immediate needs but also ensure a long-term investment in our educational system.
Exploration of Alternatives: The rejection of bids does not signal the end of the project but rather a reassessment and exploration of alternative approaches. The Board remains committed to finding the best solution that meets the needs of our students, staff, and the community.
Please be assured that while the current decision might indicate a pause in the immediate progress of the new school's construction, it reflects the Board's dedication to making informed and fiscally responsible choices for the benefit of all stakeholders.
We value your continued support and understanding as we navigate this process. Your input and engagement remain crucial, and we encourage you to share any thoughts or concerns.
Thank you for your ongoing trust in our commitment to providing a high-quality education for our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Daniel Callaghan
Superintendent