As a cost saving measure, the Ironwood Area Schools are consolidating buildings
IRONWOOD -- In May of 2009, voters in the Ironwood area made a crucial decision.
"The voters of the Ironwood Area Schools voted to do the bond renovation,” said Ironwood Area Superintendent Tim Kolesar. “This is a 6.8 million dollar renovation to the facilities here in Ironwood."
And now you can see the improvements the money has paid for at the Luther L Wright facility. Rooms on the first floor have been completely renovated.
The school has included sinks, cabinets, and more power outlets. And they've also made a few additions: a new gym, woodshop, and band room.
"The previous room was a study hall, it was shaped like a cube, which is the worst possible shape for a rehearsal space,” said Band Director Steven Boyd. “And the one down there is acoustically treated so there's the right amount of reverberation and sound quality as well as it's shaped slightly off, not all straight lines and 90-degree angles, which gives also a much better sound for the room."
So far $17,000 has been spent on Elmos and data projectors, a purchase, teachers say, has made a big difference in the classroom.
"It makes everything accessible, immediate, and interesting,” said English teacher Barbara Gibbons. “I mean the students are much more engaged."
And this is only the beginning. Even after the new elementary students arrive January 24, more changes are scheduled.
Phase two of the renovation will begin next Spring. During that time, every room in the Luther L Wright building will have its ceilings lowered, new lighting installed, and a fresh coat of paint.
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