SCHOOL BOARD HEARS HIGH SCHOOL REPORT

Progress on the Cape Girardeau School District's new high school is proceeding on schedule, with construction bids to be open to contractors in mid-January.

At Monday night's meeting, the Cape Girardeau Board of Education reviewed a proposed site plan of the $23 million project slated for Silver Springs Road. Dennis Young, vice president of the William B. Ittner Inc. architectural firm of St. Louis, presented to the board draft blueprints of the proposed two-story school, the accompanying water detention basin and parking lot.

Young said his firm has not focused solely on the utilitarian elements of the design. "We're trying not to have a sea of asphalt," he told the board, "a place where students want to come throughout the day."

The proposed design -- inspired by the architectural award-winning Triad High School in Troy, Ill. -- features tear-out interior walls to facilitate future expansions and a central library grotto overlooked by the second floor.

Superintendent Dan Steska and Board President Ferrell Ervin said they've been pleased with Ittner's progress on the project.

"To my knowledge, they've followed the timetable," said Ervin. "They've never asked to delay on something."

The new high school is scheduled to open in fall 2002.

Young said he expects the recent foul weather will insure the imminent construction bids will be competitive.

"I think the snow does help a bit, because it does keep the contractors indoors and ready to bid on projects," he said.