Upgrading CK schools

There are many pros and cons of the construction currently going on for the new CKHS and CKJH. But thankfully, Silverdale is still excited for the final product.

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The expected final product.

by Samantha Branham, Reporter

Central Kitsap High School is making huge quality improvements. As we patiently await the finished product, the population of Silverdale has found it frustrating because the construction is causing traffic jams. It is now very chaotic and dangerous for everyone at most hours of the day. Though, it has been a hectic process, many people are still very excited for the new CKHS and CKJH. 

 

Mrs. Ferate has been a teacher at CKHS for a while. She thinks that it is a fantastic idea to build a new school because “this one is old and falling apart, upgrades and new technology will be beneficial.” One good thing about the building of a new school is because “a new facility is awesome!” One bad thing about the construction is that “it causes parking issues due to lack of spots.” Although there are some cons to having the construction go on during the school year, Mrs. Ferate thinks its fun to watch the progress.

 

Mrs. Szepanski, a teacher at CKHS, hasn’t paid much attention to the construction but “every time we have a fire drill or something, and I see the work-site, I am startled by how much progress the construction company has made.” She thinks “One pro of construction is that it won’t be too long before we are out of this rickety old building. One con is the lack of parking spaces, although I’m sure it is good for us to walk up that hill every morning.” Szepanski agrees that a new school is necessary, she states “ The current building doesn’t even begin to meet today’s building code for earthquake safety, not to mention all of the open spaces and big glass doors that active shooters could fire through. I don’t want to feel like I’m going to work in a maximum security penitentiary, but on the other hand, this building seems unsafe in more ways than one.”

 

There are many reasons as to why the new schools are needed; students and parents often cannot find parking when needed, most major school systems, from heating to plumbing, need to be upgraded or replaced. Seismic upgrades are also needed to make the buildings safer. “The replacement will add permanent classroom space to get students out of portables. State-of-the-art lab and career and technical areas will allow students to use materials and build skills for tomorrow’s careers. Clear sightlines and secure entryways will improve safety and security. The project will ease traffic jams around the campus,” says ckschools.org. In fall of 2019, the new CKHS and CKJH will be finished.

Picture of current construction.