Humboldt City Schools prepare for renovations

HUMBOLDT, Tenn. — Schools in Humboldt soon will be getting a face lift.

“This is a new day for Humboldt City Schools,” Superintendent Dr. Versie Hamlett said. “We are really investing in our future and making the world a better place.”

Humboldt City Schools are prepared to do almost $4.6 million in renovations for the 2016-17 school year. $3.8 million of that money is a loan from the city.

“The mayor, the city board and our school board — we’re all working together,” Hamlett said. “This is exciting times, and the parents are excited that their kids will benefit, because it’s all for them.”

Hamlett says construction will start this summer continuing into the fall. Air conditioning and restroom renovations will take place at the junior and high school gym. The vikings football stadium will also receive some TLC with fixes for bathrooms and locker rooms.

“It’s past due for the stadium,” retired Humboldt teacher Thomas Raines said. “Dressing rooms and the restrooms all definitely need upgrading.”

The Stigall Primary School, which opened in the 60s, will receive the most attention this summer. This school still has window air units, and the superintendent says it deserves a total renovation.

“Our kids deserve an environment that’s conducive for learning,” Hamlett said. “We are in a place now where we really want to focus on a better environment for students, parents and our teachers, because they deserve better.”

“It’s definitely worth the money, and the kids in Humboldt certainly deserve the best facilities we can provide for them,” Raines said.

According to the superintendent, the old Humboldt Junior High School auditorium will also be renovated for student performances.

Bids for construction projects will start May 10.