The future footprint of Gettysburg Area School District (GASD) was once again a topic of conversation during the Sept. 8 board meeting.
The board first heard from Vida Charter School Executive Director Christine Miller about the school’s desire to purchase its existing home at the former Eisenhower Elementary School from the district. GASD has not used the building on East Broadway since it consolidated elementary schools in 2011.
Miller told the board that Vida’s strategic plan includes a “clear goal of facility ownership” and hopes the district will engage in a conversation that leads to a mutually beneficial transfer of ownership.
“Beginning a dialogue around this option could help the district leverage additional capital to reinvest in your own core priorities,” Miller said.
Miller also expressed appreciation for the district’s continued partnership in food service, transportation, and accountability as one of the charter school’s authorizing districts.
The board did not comment on Miller’s request.
Administration Building
The board also once again heard about a proposal to renovate and expand the district’s administration building on Biglerville Road.
Mike Rader of Barton and Associates and Chris Linkey of RLPS Architects told the board the project originated with a need to replace the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. The district then explored how to improve the building’s safety and security systems and accessibility while planning for future growth.
The current proposal calls for a new boardroom so the existing boardroom can be converted into a conference room, office space, and storage. The board was also presented with the possibility of adding a second floor to the new boardroom to provide open workspaces and room for future growth.
The proposal is estimated to cost $8.357 million. If the district does not pursue the second-floor option, the proposal would be reduced to $7.47 million.
The district anticipates advertising for bids in December, with final approval being considered in February. No decisions are final until the district awards contracts at a public meeting. The public is invited to share thoughts at meetings held at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month.
