Fifth and sixth-grade students at Parkview Heights Elementary recently had an exciting opportunity to tour the new addition to their school building, getting a firsthand look at their future classrooms. The tour is part of a larger renovation project stemming from a historic bond issue passed in Papillion La Vista Community Schools (PLCS) last year.

During the tour, students displayed keen interest in the ongoing construction, asking numerous questions about the project. Representatives from Boyd Jones Construction and BCDM Architects led the tours, providing valuable insights into the construction process and the future layout of the school. This hands-on approach allows students to feel more connected to the changes happening in their learning environment.

The renovation at Parkview Heights Elementary is one component of a broader improvement plan within the PLCS district. In May 2023, PLCS voters approved a historic $129.9 million bond issue, the largest in the district's history, passing with over 66% approval. The bond aims to improve safety and security, update older facilities to today's standards, and accommodate projected growth in student enrollment.

On January 22, 2024, the PLCS Board approved a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) of $7,562,283 from Boyd Jones Construction for the Parkview Heights renovation and additions. The project, set to begin in late spring 2024 and complete by August 2025, includes expanding physically smaller classrooms to standard size, making interior and exterior improvements, and updating the playground.

As construction continues, the school district remains committed to keeping students, parents, and the community informed about the progress. The student tour represents an innovative approach to involving the school community in this significant upgrade process.