Del Aire Elementary School Modernization Project and Safety & Security

The Del Aire Elementary School Modernization and Safety & Security Project is making excellent progress. The project is currently in the final stage of its design evolution: the Construction Documents Phase. During this critical phase, meticulous refinement and finalization of project plans and specifications are taking place. This stage will culminate in the submission of a comprehensive package to the Division of State Architect (DSA) by the end of September 2024 for review and approval. Given the project's scope, the DSA review is expected to take approximately six months. 

Construction is anticipated to begin in June 2025. The Modernization and Safety & Security Project aims to enhance the school's interior and fortify campus safety and security. Key implementations include electronic door locks and the establishment of a single point of entry, ensuring a secure environment. The project's overarching objectives are to address aging infrastructure, upgrade equipment, and refine interior finishes. Through these efforts, we aim to cultivate a school environment that supports learning and innovation while prioritizing safety.  

Del Aire Elementary School Roof Replacement Project

The Board of Trustees awarded the construction contract to Best Contracting Services, Inc. during the January 18, 2024, meeting. The Roof Replacement Project began on June 14, 2024, and is now approximately 75% complete.

The Main Administration Building, Classroom Wings, and Library have been completed. Work on the Multipurpose and Child Development Center Buildings is currently in progress, with the portable buildings scheduled to follow.

The Roof Replacement Project is on track for substantial completion by August 16, 2024, with final closeout anticipated by September 15, 2024. 

 

Del Aire Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Project

The District has embarked on an initiative to significantly upgrade the facilities at Del Aire Elementary School. This project involves retrofitting an existing classroom within the current Child Development Center (CDC) Building. A key component of the renovation is the construction of a new, single-occupancy, ADA-compliant student restroom, designed to provide improved accessibility and convenience for all students, as well as required upgrades to the parking lot. 

The project commenced on June 14, 2024, and is progressing smoothly. It is scheduled for substantial completion by August 9, 2024, with the final project closeout anticipated by October 10, 2024.

Wiseburn - Da Vinci High School Soccer Field

Exciting News! The Wiseburn – Da Vinci Soccer Field Project officially broke ground on May 28, 2024, marking the start of an ambitious transformation. This project involves a comprehensive renovation to meet the highest safety and performance standards. The field will undergo a complete resurfacing, incorporating state-of-the-art turf technologies and advanced drainage systems to ensure unmatched durability, traction, and playability. 

In an impressive feat, approximately 5,500 cubic yards of soil were exported in just 3.5 days, equivalent to around 400 hauling trucks! So far, the grading activities, installation of perimeter fence posts, rough underground electrical conduit, and underground perimeter drainage have been successfully completed. Irrigation is scheduled to begin the week of August 5, followed by the installation of the base. The project remains on track for completion by October 10, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.

135th & Aviation Sports Complex

The 135th & Aviation Sports Complex Project is making exceptional progress! The project has now reached the final stage of its design evolution: the Construction Documents Phase. The plans and specifications are scheduled for submission to the Division of the State Architect (DSA) on August 6, 2024. 

Given the scale of this project, we anticipate a comprehensive review by DSA, estimated to take approximately 6-7 months. This thorough process is crucial to ensure the project's compliance with safety standards.

A standout feature of this exciting venture is the inclusion of expansive field space for various sports, including NFHS Softball, Little League, and NFHS Soccer. Recognizing the importance of essential amenities, the project includes plans for additional parking, restrooms, storage, and a warming kitchen. These enhancements aim to elevate the experience for players, spectators, and staff, offering convenient access and ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all. 

Looking ahead, the groundbreaking for the 135th & Aviation Sports Complex is scheduled for March 2025. We are enthusiastic about the positive impact this facility will have on the community and are committed to delivering a venue that exceeds expectations in both design and functionality.

Hollyglen Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Conversion Project

The District is undertaking a comprehensive initiative to enhance educational facilities at Hollyglen Elementary School. The plan involves retrofitting six currently undersized classrooms within the existing CDC Building and introducing four new classrooms tailored for Transitional Kindergarten. This strategic project is designed to address the growing demand for additional adequately sized TK classrooms in the District.

The scope includes TK restrooms, storage, dedicated spaces for teacher collaboration, and minor ADA upgrades. The goal is to create a modern and inclusive learning environment that meets the evolving needs of the student population.

Project plans and specifications were submitted to DSA on May 28, 2024 and are currently under review. Anticipated to commence construction in winter 2025, the project is slated to be completed and ready for use by the start of the school year in August 2025!

Network Infrastructure Project

The District has partnered with CISCO and NWN Carousel to perform a complete overhaul of the District’s existing network which will include Safety & Security upgrades Districtwide. The project will be completed in phases with overall completion planned by August 2025. The first phase is underway and includes the upgrade and replacement of existing equipment with a planned completion prior to the start of the school year in August 2024. The second phase includes the installation of new cameras and new wireless access points which is planned to be completed by the end of November 2024. The final phase which requires DSA approval will upgrade the District’s access controls systems, with overall project completion planned by August 2025.

The Following Projects Represent Non-Bond Funded Projects

Solar Photovoltaic Carport Projects

The District is currently embarking on an ambitious renewable energy generation and storage initiative, involving the installation of cutting-edge Solar Photovoltaic Carport Arrays, Battery Storage Systems, and EV Charging Stations at Aviation ES, Del Aire ES, Hollyglen ES, and Wiseburn MS. These Solar Projects are strategically aligned with the District's overarching objectives of fostering sustainability and curbing energy expenses. 

The funding for these Solar Projects was secured through a private loan, and the repayment will be exclusively covered by the energy savings generated from these innovative projects. The District foresees a substantial net savings of up to $16 million over the next 30 years, underscoring the long-term economic and environmental benefits of this forward-thinking initiative!

Project plans and specifications have been approved by DSA for all four school sites. The Projects are gearing up to break ground.  Below, is the planned construction timeline for each Project: 

Background: Wiseburn Unified School District (WUSD) is the local provider of TK-12 public education, and has two key priorities: first, to ensure academic and career success for every teacher and student; and second, to make sure that its five school campuses, including facilities, technology, and school grounds are healthy, safe, secure, technologically current, environmentally sound, and equipped to provide Wiseburn teachers and students with the very best educational setting possible. As one of the top performing districts in the state, WUSD has been planning to ensure our facilities continue to support excellent teaching and learning for years to come. As part of that process, a community input driven 2022 Facilities Master Plan has been adopted. This identifies key safety updates and critical repairs that are needed to ensure safe, modern, up-to-date classrooms and labs to support teaching and learning. Measure EE provides a plan to address the most critical WUSD School District facilities & technology needs. No other funding currently exists to properly upgrade these facilities. 

Measure EE DEFINED: Measure EE is a school bond measure on the November 8, 2022 ballot seeking voter authorization for Wiseburn Unified School District funding to make needed facilities repairs, technology upgrades, and improvements to school sites. Measure EE requires 55% support to pass. A “YES vote” approves funding for the District’s plan; a “NO vote” rejects the plan. 

Measure EE Ballot Question: “To upgrade school security, emergency communications and fire safety systems, upgrade classroom technology, science, computer and engineering labs; repair aging gas/water lines, leaky roofs; ensure school drinking water remains safe; repair, construct, acquire equipment, sites/facilities; shall Wiseburn Unified School District’s locally controlled measure authorizing $98,000,000 in bonds at legal rates, levying 3¢ per $100 of assessed valuation, generating $6,300,000 annually while bonds are outstanding be adopted, requiring audits, independent oversight and public disclosure of all spending?”

Measure EE Summary – Measure EE will:

• Retain and attract quality teachers by maintaining safe, modern, up-to-date classrooms and facilities
• Upgrade campus safety and security for emergencies including safety doors, smoke alarms/detectors, and communications systems.
• Improve student access to instruction in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math).
• Repair urgent basic needs including gas lines, leaky roofs, disabled accessibility, HVAC, plumbing, internet access, etc.
• Provide clean, safe sports fields.
• Improve access to student mental health services

Taxpayer Safeguards:

• By law, all funds from Measure EE must stay local, dedicated to WUSD schools only.    
• The State cannot take Measure EE funding away. 
• Independent Citizens' Oversight Committee, independent annual audits, and regular public reports ensure proper spending of funds. 

Measure EE would cost property owners 3 cents per $100 of assessed valuation per year, while bonds are outstanding. The assessed valuation refers to the taxable value, not the market value of your property. The taxable value of your home or business will depend on when you purchased it.

Commercial, industrial, and residential property would be subject to the assessment. Because the property in the WUSD community is mostly business, Measure EE would be funded 75% by business and 25% by residents.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please visit our website at: wiseburn.org or contact Superintendent Blake Silvers via email at wtsubaki@wiseburn.org or by phone: (310) 725-2101 ext. 5105.

Provided as a public service for your information only by Wiseburn Unified School District