We spent a lot of time over the past year getting input from stakeholders on our branding, including adopting the bulldog as the mascot at all schools and updating our district logos. This collaborative process resulted in a change in our vision as a district: To prepare all students to be future-ready. This new vision allows us to continually focus on preparing our students for life after high school and ensure that every graduate has a path, whether that is college or career-focused.
This school year will also see a lot of construction occurring at our school sites as we ensure our facilities are also future-ready thanks to the passing of our $45,000,000 bond in 2021. On September 7th, we were able to officially break ground on the new gymnasium at Martin City K8. This will provide a competition-size gym that will be able to accommodate the entire school population as well as renovated fine arts spaces. Throughout the year, we will also have projects in some phase of development at every school site including an expansion of the cafeteria as well as renovation of the band room and industrial technology area at GHS, completion of expanding the visitors stands at the stadium, as well as the design and construction of playgrounds for all our PreK and elementary schools. The upgrades to our schools will also include several security enhancements such as brand new camera systems at all sites to match what was done previously at the high school, and a new key card access system at all exterior doors throughout the district to further secure our buildings.
After all that has occurred in our lives the past two years, I am excited to see what we can accomplish this school year. We have an amazing staff that has been energized by our students' excitement at returning to school and we remain committed to our community, our parents, and to our students. As always, we will continually strive to partner together with all of you with the ultimate goal of student success. Together, we are the Grandview community and we thank you for your continued support.
Kenny Rodrequez