Dayton Moves Ahead on School Upgrades

DAYTON—Capital projects, the athletic combine and the makeup of the hiring committee for prospective coaches were topics at last week’s Dayton School Board meeting.

Superintendent Doug Johnson said the district has enough funds allotted to address the remaining capital projects on its list. Yet to be accomplished this year are upgrading the phone system, repairing and replacing the heating system, and replacing the high school roof.

Johnson said 75 phones are to be installed by Tri-Tech Communications on March 26, and cable drops for internet and electrical outlets for backup service are to be provided, with wireless service from the HS gym to the shops. Total cost of around $66,000.

Drew Wright, consultant from Garland Company, spoke to the directors about the benefits of installing a roof at the HS with a 25-year warranty rather than 18 years. The low bid was from Gillespie Roofing Co. for $235,485.51, which includes five percent for decking replacement. Roofing will begin on June 11, with oversight from the Garland Company, Wright said.

Johnson said the new heating system will cost around $325,000.

Middle and High School Principal Paul Shaber said there are not enough participants in Waitsburg for Girls Softball and track. 75% of spring sports are already combined, he said.

“We’re getting more experience working together,” said Shaber about a positive result of the combine. (See complete story on athletic combine progress on Page 6.)

Dayton Elementary Principal Denise Smith said things are moving right along in the elementary school.

Students have finished a charity events called Jump Rope and Hoops for Heart, and a Pacific Science Center presentation called “Blood and Guts” was well received by students.

Students in Grades 3-10 are working on “I, Ready,” a new diagnostic assessment tool, which provides more information about deficiencies and skills. It replaces the STAR assessment tool, said Smith. “The kids are loving it,” she said.

Dr. Seuss Week was a hit, with 200 people attending the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast. Students were challenged to read 3,000 pages and they read 7,000, Smith said.