Corbin school board approves bids on old middle school renovations

The last step authorizing the renovations to Corbin Independent Schools’ flagship building has been taken and work is set to begin in September.

At a special called meeting of the board of education Tuesday night, the board awarded the bids on the $7 million project that will allow the former high school and middle school building on Kentucky Ave. to serve as the new home for the fourth and fifth grades.

Superintendent Dave Cox said the board approved all of the bids and alternatives for the renovations, which includes: New HVAC, new electrical services, paining, doors and hardware, floors, ceilings and a security vestibule that will connect the school and neighboring gymnasium.

In addition, a new security system will require visitors to speak with staff via an intercom system to be “buzzed” inside.

“The project started out at somewhere around $5, “Cox said.

As part of the project both buildings will have their exteriors cleaned and restored.

Cox said this project, along with the addition at the primary school, will be completed by July.

Upon completion of those projects, the third grade will move to the primary school, allowing the school system to close the elementary and intermediate schools.

“If everything goes perfectly, every student in our district will be in a new or newly renovated building by the new school year,” Cox said. “That is quite a blessing.

A name for the new school has yet to be decided upon.