Superintendent Jason Sternberger sat down with All About Hennessey to reflect on several key infrastructure projects completed across Hennessey Public Schools and offered a preview of whatโs to come.
In the last few years, the district has made major improvements, including a new bus barn, an expanded parking area west of the baseball and football fields, updated fencing around the elementary playground, and the resurfacing of the track.
โWe were fortunate to have built up our building fund and could complete many of these projects using local dollars,โ Sternberger said.
One of the more visible, and often questioned, projects is the drainage ditch on the east side of the campus. Originally designed as part of the dome plan, the ditch will eventually be filled to improve traffic flow and add parking in front of the elementary and middle schools.
โThis was always meant to be a two-part project,โ said Sternberger. โThe city helped us out by securing a grant to move the old water line, which was holding us up.โ
With that step complete, the district is now preparing to revisit the drainage and parking project. Sternberger says they hope to get updated bids soon, and with fewer unknowns, expect better pricing and more contractor interest.
Looking ahead, the district is also exploring the idea of a small bond issue to address facility needs at the athletic complex, including building a dedicated space for the softball team.
โWeโve had a lot of ideas, but itโs time to get serious and do whatโs best for the kids,โ he said.
Financially, the district is in good shape, though caution is key. With declining gross production revenue from oil, the district is off the top tier of state aid and is operating more conservatively.
One potential new program is a third meal option for students after school. โThereโs more need out there than people realize,โ said Sternberger. โWeโre working with principals and our child nutrition director to see whatโs possible.โ
Another major change this year is a stricter electronic device policy, in line with new state guidelines. Students will no longer be allowed to use phones or devices from bell to bell during the school day.
Finally, the district welcomes seven new teachers this year, including several Hennessey grads and experienced educators. Sternberger called them a โvery strong groupโ that will continue the districtโs tradition of excellence.
As the new school year approaches, the superintendent says the focus remains clear: investing wisely and always putting students first. You can watch the full webshow episode on AllAboutHennesesy.com
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