Sketch by McKee and Associates

High school work on schedule

By Michael Butler

Work is underway on a new high school in Tallassee. The new building will replace the structure that has stood since 1929.

"They're moving along," Tallassee City Schools superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin said. "These guys have been serious and I've been pleased thus far. They're responsive when I have a question. The biggest concern right now is lead time on materials."

What those who drive by on Barnett Boulevard will notice is the intitial stage of work, which requires the foundation for the auditorium/performing arts portion of the building on the east side of the campus. Already, 105 dump trucks of dirt have been brought in.

"Normally we'd been traveling looking at different auditoriums and finishes. COVID makes that difficult," Nolin added, "so you're looking at stuff in magazines. I like to touch and feel it. We're working through it."

Portable units should be arriving soon to be prepared for use during the next school year.

"There will be 17 modulars on the band field area. All the plumbing is ready to be installed. There will decks built, sidewalks poured. They'll be networked with WiFi. It'll be its own little community on the band field for what they say - 18 months."

Nolin had a request to have the modulars in place by May 1, so teachers would have time to make the transition.

"Even during a normal year when a teacher comes in from the summer, it's like a mad scramble trying to get everything ready. I want to give them at least a month while they're still on contract before the summer begins to get their classrooms set up."

The last day for classes in the main building is scheduled for June 4.

Groundbreaking on Jan. 19, 2021