In its second phase of renovations, Orland Elementary District 135 is planning $15 million in projects including new playgrounds and HVAC replacements funded through bonds and reserves.
The school board held a public hearing this week on the proposed improvements that could affect all 10 elementary and junior high schools within District 135. Over an 8-year span, the district expects to contribute $26 million total toward infrastructure renovations.
Scott Beranek, the district’s finance director, said the district’s architecture firm, Tria, identified the repairs and recommended improvements during a facility survey assessment. District 135 has since completed its first phase, contributing $8 million toward flooring, paint and lighting updates, playground replacements and new HVAC units in several buildings.
“In every area that we have had the spaces upgraded and really worked on, everyone is super excited with the way it turned out,” Beranek said. “We’ve got to continue it.”
The second phase, pending board approval, would begin this summer, Beranek said, with all remaining work to wrap up in summer 2026. Examples of projects the district hopes to tackle include roof and window replacements, more HVAC and lighting renovations, parking lot improvements and new playgrounds.
Beranek said heating and air conditioning regulation has been a problem, with classrooms near the unit experiencing different conditions compared to rooms farther away. New, higher efficiency units will allow students to experience a consistent climate and more comfort.
Students at schools with playground replacements will have a say in designs, Beranek said, as they will be consulted as to which apparatuses they want and given the opportunity to vote on a variety of options. Inside improvements will include flooring, lighting, ceiling tiles and paint.
“Just getting the spaces modernized and upgraded,” Beranek said.
The district is selling $14.5 million in bonds for the second phase of the project, with cash reserves covering additional costs as well as $2.5 million in yearly improvements. A presentation to the board of education shows final approvals will be sought at their Feb. 10 meeting.
Beranek said, at that point, the district will work toward putting projects out for the lowest bids. The district projects investing $1.6 million into Centennial School, $5.6 million into Center School, $1.5 million at Century Junior High, $1.1 million for High Point School, $500,000 at Jerling Junior High, $1 million into Liberty School, $850,000 at Meadow Ridge, $1 million for Park School and $250,000 into Prairie School.
Beranek reported little pushback from school community members, as students will not be in the buildings when work is in progress. He said any scheduled summer camps or programming will rotate to buildings not being worked on.
“The district’s just super excited to just continue on with getting this work done,” Beranek said. “Just upgrading the facility and getting their buildings up to where we think the community wants it, and our parents want it with it … It’s a lot of work, but we’re tackling it.”
ostevens@chicagotribune.com
