Demolition Underway: The Old Malad Elementary School Faces the Wrecking Ball

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News Summary

The old Malad Elementary School is being demolished, paving the way for a new educational facility that promises enhanced safety and modern features by 2025.

Demolition Underway: The Old Malad Elementary School Faces the Wrecking Ball

In what will surely be a historic turning point for the community, the long anticipated demolition of the old Malad Elementary School began on April 1. This is no elaborate prank, but a significant step towards rejuvenating education for the local students. Within two days, the demolition crew efficiently dismantled the main school building, ag/alternative school building, and the T&I/bus shop.

Safety First: Asbestos Abatement Procedures

While the demolition might seem like a straightforward affair, the preparation involved was no small feat. The process of asbestos abatement took over six weeks to ensure safety before the wrecking crew could even pick up their equipment. Throughout this period, the School District adhered strictly to laws governing the removal of hazardous materials, requiring certification by State inspectors to confirm the area was safe. Thanks to these meticulous measures, the risk of asbestos exposure for students and the public was completely eliminated.

Building Collapse Unveils Risk Factors

The demolition team utilized two giant power shovels to tackle the 70-year-old structures, starting from the cafeteria end where most classrooms were situated. The tear down was not without surprises; the collapse of the auditorium roof highlighted significant earthquake risks associated with the aged buildings. This further underscored the necessity of moving towards a new educational facility that complies with modern safety standards.

A Step Toward the Future

Once the final wall—the south brick wall near the school office—came tumbling down, the crew shifted their focus to demolishing the century-old ag/alternative school and the outdated T&I building/bus garage. The demolition process is anticipated to take around 3-4 weeks for complete debris removal, after which plans for a new parking lot and playground will unfold. Notably, the new playground aims to replace the old football field which served as a recess area.

Remembering the Past: A Farewell Event

The community aims to honor their shared history with a farewell event planned for the old school. Items from the school will be auctioned off on January 13-14, allowing alumni and locals to take home a piece of their cherished past. Interestingly, students were invited to leave their mark on the school’s walls by writing their names, adding a sentimental touch to the inevitable destruction.

New Beginnings and Enhanced Safety Features

As the old school is being demolished, excitement builds for the new school that will officially open its doors on the first day of school in 2025. This forward-thinking facility will feature a single-story layout complete with a gymnasium and the necessary classrooms. To enhance parental experiences, new safety measures will be prioritized in the pickup lane, ensuring better visibility and more efficient traffic flow.

Community Engagement and Financial Considerations

The project comes with a heavy price tag of $17.5 million, prompting polls for a bond that will determine the community’s commitment to investing in their children’s education. For the measure to pass, a two-thirds majority is required from voters. Previously, a bond proposal failed, but this new initiative is adjusted to accommodate rising construction costs. Homeowners with assessed property values of $120,000 can expect a modest increase of $143.40 in taxes annually if the bond is approved.

State Support for Construction

Adding a silver lining to the financial burden, the school construction project qualifies for a substantial 33.67% state subsidy under Idaho’s Bond Levy Equalization Support Program. This could ease some of the financial pressures on local taxpayers and ensure the successful launch of the new educational facility.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the dust settles on the remains of the old school, a future filled with hope and state-of-the-art education awaits the children of Malad. The demolition signifies not just the end of an era, but also the vibrant beginnings of an educational environment that promises to better serve the community for generations to come.