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Transformation of FHS
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about the Transformation of FHS
Construction
When will the transformed FHS be complete?
What happens to materials from the existing materials after demolition?
Will any trees be removed during demolition and construction?
The Need
Why did the Board decide to transform the high school?
How did the Board determine the solution?
Millage
How much money will the millage increase (approved on Sept 21, 2010) generate?
How much money will the district and the taxpayers save by utilizing zero-interest bonds?
How was Phase 1 of the FHS transformation financed?
What features will Phase 2 provide to FHS?
Construction
When will the transformed FHS be complete?
Construction will be completed by August of 2015.
What happens to materials from the existing materials after demolition?
Approximately 50% of demolished building materials will be recycled.
Will any trees be removed during demolition and construction?
Construction on the site requires the removal of 65 trees, however 224 new trees will be planted.
The Need
Why did the Board decide to transform the high school?
Fayetteville has outgrown the existing high school facility, which was built in 1952. All of the common areas are small and most fall below state standards. Building safety is an issue with 56 entry doors to the buildings. Parking is inadequate, the band can’t all fit in the band room at the same time, and the 325-seat cafeteria seats less than one sixth of the student body at once. Academic spaces are outdated, and do not afford the flexibility for incorporating newer teaching and learning practices. Additionally, several of our elementary schools have more students than seats available, and our Pre-K program continues to grow. More space at the high school will allow a trickle-down realignment to take place throughout the district, which will ensure adequate building capacity district-wide for many years.
How did the Board determine the solution?
The plan was developed with input from several public patron group meetings held in the Fall of 2009. All decision points by the Board have been discussed in public view. Several key ideas from the public charette process held in February of 2009 are reflected in the plans, including:
Millage
How much money will the millage increase generate?
The 2.75 mill increase will generate $51 million to complete Phase 2 of the Fayetteville High School project.
How much money will the district and the taxpayers save by utilizing zero-interest bonds?
Over the 15 to 17 year life cycle of the zero-interest bonds, taxpayers will save $29 million in interest and incentives.
Yes. This is referred to as sunset. The millage will sunset when the bond package is paid off in approximately 25 years.
How was Phase 1 of the FHS transformation financed?
Phase 1 is being financed by the sale of $45 million in Qualified School Construction Bonds (QSCB). The District cut 2.5 million from its budget to help pay for construction of Phase 1. Phase 1 demolished Bates Annex and in its place, will create new academic spaces, a performing arts center, athletic spaces, and a student commons area for a total of 234,360 square feet.
What features will Phase 2 provide to FHS?
Phase 2 will complete the transformation of the existing high school. Not only will Phase 2 update the current facility to meet state standards, it will modernize the layout to give teachers and students a 21st century learning environment. Phase 2 covers 299,340 square feet, the majority of which is classroom space. Completing Phase 2 also will provide the following: