During the planning phase of this project, we partnered with an architect group for a full assessment and feasibility study on all buildings in our district. In terms of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and Accessibility concerns, three out of the four buildings produced either a Fair or Poor rating based on current conditions.

Based on the assessment results, we developed plans to address these very important needs.

The planned project up for a vote this November includes funding to update several ADA/Accessible areas within the Union Community School District.

These projects include the following to be ADA compliant and to better address accessibility needs:

*Updating restrooms to meet ADA requirements, which consists of ensuring the restroom can be easily maneuvered by wheelchair users and walkers. Widening doors, toilet height and width, sink height, grab bars, proper handle and faucet controls that all meet ADA standards.

*Updating/Renovating locker rooms to accommodate accessibility concerns, consisting of adjusting layout, widening doors, accessible restroom and shower options within the locker room area.

*Updating door hardware/door width to meet ADA needs, making all needed doors able to provide at least 32 inches of clear width, installing lever handles to replace traditional round doorknobs.

*Renovating Family and Consumer Science rooms at the high school to have an accessible Lab/Kitchen space created in those classrooms: this allows all students of all abilities to fully participate in the activities, ensuring equal opportunities for learning.

*Creating a Commons Area/Cafeteria that is located on the main level of the high school to accommodate accessibility for all students. This will allow students of all abilities to fully access that area of the high school without any need for elevator lift.

As a school board member and a parent of two children with special needs, I appreciate the Union Community School District aiming to tackle these very important updates/renovations in the ADA/Accessible area. I know these updates will be very beneficial to current and future students. In addition, these improvements can be seen/used by visitors who come into the buildings and use these facilities. I encourage all to support the bond referendum on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, to allow for all students and visitors to have better/compliant access to important areas of the buildings.

Carleen McGivern is a member of the Union Community School District Board of Education and a resident of Dysart.