Oswego School District 308 to Host Community Meetings on Future Plans

Residents of the Oswego School District 308 have the opportunity to participate in a series of community meetings aimed at shaping the district’s future facilities. As the district develops a comprehensive master facility plan, these meetings will gather input on current and future needs. The next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on October 22, 2023, at Thompson Junior High School, located at 440 Boulder Hill Pass, Oswego. Additionally, a virtual meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on October 27, 2023.

The initiative follows a $380,000 contract approved last October by the school board with Wight & Company, a firm specializing in architecture, engineering, and construction. Their expertise will guide the planning process to ensure the district’s facilities meet educational and environmental standards.

During a previous meeting on September 10, 2023, Stuart Brodsky, a principal at Wight & Company, emphasized the firm’s commitment to creating conducive learning environments. “We specialize in designing educational learning environments, particularly early childhood through 12th grade,” Brodsky stated. He further elaborated on the importance of constructing buildings that promote both sustainability and the health of their occupants.

The master facility plan will assess the physical condition of the district’s buildings, focusing on key structural elements such as walls, roofs, windows, mechanical systems, and lighting. Brodsky noted that improving educational alignment is a priority, which involves aligning learning environments with the district’s strategic goals.

Several specific recommendations have emerged from the planning discussions. Improvements include modernizing administrative spaces at Murphy Junior High, enhancing science labs at Oswego High School, and expanding student parking at Oswego East High School. It is noteworthy that 80% of the district’s buildings were constructed between 1995 and 2010.

Despite the age of these structures, Wight & Company has confirmed that the district has maintained its facilities well, with no buildings reported to be in critical condition. For those seeking further information about the Long-Range Facility Plan, details are available on the district’s official website at sd308.org.

As these community meetings continue, district officials encourage public participation to ensure that the voices of residents are reflected in the future of Oswego School District 308.