Sunshine renovation to address security concerns with Prop S passage
In 2018, a group of citizens from across Springfield came together and recommended 39 high-priority projects, including renovating Sunshine Elementary School which was founded nearly 90 years ago.
A renovation to Sunshine Elementary would relocate Sunshine’s office in relation to its primary entrance, a current security concern, says Joy Robertson, member of the Community Task Force on Facilities.
“The renovation will include a new secure entrance, requiring visitors to go through the office before entering the school,” says Robertson. “Improvements will also address accessibility challenges to ensure the school accommodates students and visitors of all abilities.
In addition to a more secure main entrance, a renovated Sunshine would feature a gym and cafeteria -- two separate spaces that are currently combined.
“As part of the renovation, a dedicated gymnasium will be built, which will allow more space for P.E. classes and other activities, while making meal service in the cafeteria more efficient and enjoyable for students,” says Becky Volz, member of the Community Task Force on Facilities. “The gymnasium will also serve as a storm shelter for students and staff.”
Additional classroom space will also be added, expanding Sunshine’s capacity to about 350 students. Attendance boundaries will be adjusted, resulting in Portland Elementary students becoming part of the Sunshine community and about 100 current Sunshine students attending the new Delaware Elementary School.
A renovated Sunshine will address all of these and other facility problems, with the total estimated cost of $13.89 million.
Sunshine is one of many schools that would receive facility improvements, including secure entrances for 31 sites, with approval of Proposition S. Learn more at SPS.org/PropS