Space talk: PES discusses building use

PRINCETON — The Princeton Elementary School Board continues to review building use and needs for the district.

At last week's meeting, board member Terry O'Neill gave a progress update on the Building Committee's work. Committee members have toured each school site during a school day to see how the building is used on a regular basis. The committee has also met with architect Robert Johnson who has given a professional evaluation on the condition of the district buildings.

Superintendent Tim Smith said the architect had no major concerns about the PES buildings. The architect reported the buildings are in good shape and well-maintained. The buildings, which Smith described as middle-aged, were evaluated by the architect to see if they provided sufficient space for the district population. The tightest space has been at the Lincoln Elementary building, but a two-room modular building will be in place for the 2009-10 school year, Smith said.

The Building Committee will also meet with the district principals to get their perspective on the buildings.

In other business at Monday's meeting, the school board approved a recommendation by Smith to maintain the school lunch price at the current $2 per lunch for students and $2.25 for adults. More than 85 percent of the PES students participate in the school lunch program.

In addition to the same lunch costs for next year, the board has also kept the $40 book rental fee for next year.

In other business at PES' May meeting, the board hired Emily Sundin as a full-time music instructor for the 2009-10 school year. Sundin will work primarily as a general music instructor at Reagan Middle School. PES will have three full-time music instructors for the 2009-10 school year.