Bayfield School District officials are inviting district patrons to tour the old primary school on South Street on Tuesday, Aug. 16. Activities start at 6 p.m.
The district stopped holding classes in the old school in the late 1990s because it was considered no longer suitable for students.
But because of enrollment growth, especially in the elementary grades, more than 200 kindergarten and first-graders now have classes in the old building.
Getting them out of there is the fundamental reason for the district's proposed bond issue to build a new school for grades 3-5 just south of the middle school, and for extensive renovations and additions at the elementary school to accommodate grades K-2. The project also includes traffic circulation, safety, and security improvements at BES and the mid school.
The bond issue for $28.632 million will be on the November ballot.
The district has secured an $8.568 million BEST grant from the Colorado Department of Education to reduce the amount needed from local taxpayers. But the BEST grant is contingent on voter approval of the bond issue.
The total project cost is listed at $37.2 million.
The Aug. 16 tour will include information about the district building plans.
