The Ozark School District held a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday for two new projects.
The first is an expansion of the Tiger Paw Early Childhood Center. The second is a renovation of the Ozark Innovation Center to make it an extension of the high school campus.
“Not only is it about us investing in the future of our youngest learners, but it’s also about investing in our high schoolers. We’re so excited about this project,” Dr. Chris Bauman said during the ceremony.
The two projects are part of the District’s Long Range Plan made possible when voters approved a $26.5 million no-tax-increase bond in 2020.
The Tiger Paw expansion will make room for about 200 more preschool students.
“We are excited about the fact that this building originally went into service in August of 1922, and when we get this project finished on time, in August of 2022, it will be on the building’s 100th anniversary,” School Board President Tom Bass said at the Tiger Paw groundbreaking ceremony. “I’d like to thank our patrons and our voters, who without their support and their vote we would not have had the bond issue that has allowed us to take care of this project and turn this building back into the wonderful facility that it was in its past.”
The Innovation Center’s redevelopment will take place in phases. The first phase includes reinforcement of the outer walls to meet wind load building codes; installing skylights; and upgrading the building’s shell. The innovation center, known as the Fasco building, has a history in the community.
“So many of you who know anything about the history of Ozark know that the Fasco facility has been a huge part of Ozark and its history. And to me, one of the most exciting things is this place is going to become such a huge part of our future,” Bauman said.
Both projects are estimated to be complete in August 2022.Ozark School District Breaks Ground on Two Building ProjectsOzark School District Breaks Ground on Two Building ProjectsOzark School District Breaks Ground on Two Building ProjectsOzark School District Breaks Ground on Two Building ProjectsOzark School District Breaks Ground on Two Building Projects