Rock Island Today

A 2020-21 budget has been approved by the Rock Island-Milan School Board members, which includes an improved education fund deficit from prior projections.

The Dispatch Argus reported a previously proposed budget included a $565,062 budget deficit, but the approved plan has a smaller deficit. The current deficit is $491.735. At the budget meeting, Legat Architects and Bush Construction representatives also spoke about construction projects for Washington Junior High and Rock Island High School.

Bids for the contracts are expected to be approved this month.  

The junior high project will include secure entryway and cafeteria renovation and expansion. The project will also encompass administrative offices, two flex offices for specialists that serve students and a nurse space that includes a separate bathroom and shower, according to Dispatch Argus. 

The high school construction project will include a production kitchen, renovation to the cafeteria, commons added and a secure entrance added. There will also be added food service equipment. 

“It’s down a little bit; it’s still an impactful project,” Jeff Sandberg of Legat Architects said. “It really gives the high school a new face-lift. It’s really exciting.”

The projects are still in early stages, but Superintendent Reginald Lawrence said he hopes for feedback from the community. 

“Are we involving our community partners and stakeholders? Involving anyone else in these conversations?” he asked during the meeting. 

During the board meeting, members also discussed remote learning and how families are coping. Some families wish to return to in-person instruction, Lawrence told the board, but he recognizes all the hard work and sacrifices parents, teachers, students and even grandparents and other family members are making during the COVID-19 pandemic to make sure children get the best remote education that they can. 

“This has been an all-hands-on-board type of process,” he said.