The Hardin Northern Board of Education took action at their regular meeting on a couple very exciting items related to upgrading facilities.  The first was to approve the request for bids on an electronic sign for the front of our school.  The sign will be double-sided in order to be seen from both directions on State Route 81.  It will also have the capability of running both graphics and video.  This should be installed prior to the end of the calendar year, December, 2016.

The second item was the purchase of property directly adjacent to our existing property.  The Board approved the purchase of more or less 10 acres from the Haynes (Willeke) family that lie directly north of the existing property.  While there is no road frontage with this purchase the Willeke family has agreed to provide an easement within the land deed at no additional cost to the district.  This easement will allow access to the property.

Both of these facilities updates are part of the district’s strategic plan aimed at creating a safer and improved educational experience for students and increased communication with our public, parents, and community.  The strategic plan was framed through a collaborative process involving community stakeholders, parents, and staff.  Plans for the newly acquired land include: a new high school softball field, updating of the track to meet modern 400 meter and 8 lane regulations, additional room for track field events (discus throwing area), additional practice areas to relieve stress on baseball field (currently used for physical education and football practice), and a new and updated bus garage with additional storage.

The district has engaged an architectural firm to help district stakeholders further identify and prioritize long-term facility needs.  If stakeholders in the community are interested in being a part of this discussion of priorities for land acquisition please contact superintendent Jeff Price.