As many of you are aware, Levelland ISD is making a change for the upcoming school year.
The decision has been made to close the Levelland Intermediate School (LIS) campus that currently houses 4th and 5th graders. The decision has brought about numerous questions and with change, comes a level of stress due to the unknown. Our goal is to be open and honest about all operations at Levelland ISD, including the upcoming changes.
Beginning with the 20232024 school year, Levelland ISD will be comprised of five campuses. The Levelland ABC campus will house PreK - 1st Grade. South Elementary School and Capitol Elementary School will each house 2nd Grade - 4th Grade. Levelland Middle School will house 5th Grade - 8th Grade. The campus will operate two cohort groups; 5th - 6th, and 7th 8th. Levelland High School will house 9th Grade - 12th Grade.
The decision to close LIS was made based on two factors. Enrollment at Levelland ISD has continued to decline over the past numerous years. This decline has slowly occurred, yet our enrollment is down approximately 400 students since 2016. The second determining factor is the physical condition of the building and the amount of money that will need to be allocated for renovations and repairs. We strive to be good stewards of our tax payer’s money and fiscal responsibility is a major component of this decision.
Construction on the building began in 1938, which makes the building the oldest instructional facility at Levelland ISD. It is also the instructional facility with the most repair and upgrade needs.
Questions have been raised about what was done to the building with the 2013 bond package. At that time, the building received a number of cosmetic repairs, such as stone work and windows. Some of the restrooms were remodeled and are ADA accessible. Additionally, some upgrades and repairs were made to HVAC units, electrical outlets, the auditorium, and the roof.
The proposed scope of work from the 2013 bond was completed as proposed, however the building has numerous additional needs at this time. I was recently told by the architect firm, who assisted the district in 2013, that the upgrades/repairs were to add approximately 10 years of life to the building. This is in line with the current building needs.
I recently heard a quote from a community member that truly sums up our daily decision making. “Education is for the future”. Education is indeed to prepare our students for adult life and their future. As we move forward, the needs of our students are our priority. Schools are for kids and we must keep our focus on them.
As always, Levelland ISD will move forward and will Expect Excellence in all that we do.