Join the Conversation (Part II)
Since the selection of LWC, Inc. at the December 12, 2016 board meeting we have collaboratively worked to develop a process to shape and maximize our facility planning at Wayne Local Schools.
Who is LWC Incorporated? LWC provides comprehensive architectural interior design and planning services. The firm is head quartered at 434 East First Street, Dayton, Ohio (across from Fifth-Third Field). The firm is Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certified. The firm’s record of excellent design solutions has been achieved in the following markets:
- Primary and Secondary Education
- Higher Education
- Arts, Culture and Community
- Healthcare Historic Renovation
LWC’s proximity to the Waynesville community allows their team to provide responsive client service to all our project related matters. From the very beginning LWC has shown sensitivity to the additional scrutiny of projects that are funded by public dollars. Taxpayers want every assurance that their dollars are spent in a prudent and responsible manner. The LWC team is working with the Board and Administration of the district to meet that expectation.
Our community forums were designed to help us determine a course of action to address our aging school buildings that are not up to current standards when it comes to student learning and accessibility compliance. We want to spend taxpayer dollars wisely as we determine whether to repair, renovate, or rebuild our individual buildings.
Forum participants were presented numerous aspects of facility planning; we asked how important each aspect was to them. Using a 10 point scale, 10 being “extremely important” and 1 being “not important at all;” respondents identified four (4) critical expectations related to facility planning.
- Safety/Accessibility: Our buildings need to keep safety at the forefront and provide American Disability Act Compliance for all students, staff and guests. The average score was “9.3” and 71% of respondents ranked it as a “10.”
- Longevity: The master facilities plan needs to last for multiple generations. The average score was “9.2” and 73% of respondents ranked it as a “10”
- Value: The Board of Education should select a master facilities plan that provides the greatest value for tax payers. The average score was “9.1” and 67% of respondents ranked it as a “10.”
- Educational Purpose: Providing a modern learning environment is essential for our students. The average score was “9.1” and 57% of respondents ranked it as a “10.”
These four (4) aspects become foundational in the work the Board, Administration and LWC produce moving forward.
Future updates to follow on our progress as decisions are made.
Yours in Education,
Pat Dubbs, Superintendent of Schools
