As published in the Thursday, August 8, 2024, Franklin County Gazette:
For many kids who grew up in the West Frankfort area in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, their identity came down to the answer to one question – do you go to Denning or Frankfort? They would argue over which of the twin K-6 schools were better, either the blue fascia trimmed Frankfort and the avocado green shaded Denning.
While Frankfort Elementary eventually saw its fascia repainted before closing in 2000 after battling mine subsidence issue, Denning has continued as a Pre-K-2 school. After passing its 50th birthday, it has been getting a facelift over the past three years which is about to see its green crown disappear.
Frankfort District #168 has seen a two-pronged renovation project proceed over this summer to improve safety and operations at Denning. First, the roof is being replaced after approximately 20 years of life, while the fascia is being modernized and replaced. Then, to solve a safety and access issue for this building from the 1970s, the entrance to the building is being improved. A secure vestibule is being constructed at the front of the school. Upon arrival, visitors will be buzzed into a relocated office, before proceeding into the rest of the school.
The other major improvement over the summer has been the replacement of all of the original, exterior doors. That part of the project will help better secure the building.
Work this summer included asbestos abatement of the caulking around the door frames and from floor tiles that are being replaced; removal of the old roof down to the deck; and replacement and remodeling of some rooms to move the administrative office, library, and lounge. Erwin Builders and Martin Roofing have been the general contractors on this summer’s projects.
This project completes three years of work to catch up with deferred maintenance needs to set the building up for another couple of decades of service. This included the replacement of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning System, and the lighting system, along with the addition of AC in the gym/cafeteria and kitchen, this has made the school a more comfortable learning environment for all.
The combined projects could not have been completed without over $3,597,000 in federal pandemic-related funds. These were combined with bonds backed by the county school facility sales tax, along with a smaller amount of previously levied property tax funds, to complete the almost $5.4 million total project that began in the summer of 2022.
Work is to be substantially completed by the start of the school year, with finishing touches completed during the first few weeks of classes. School begins in West Frankfort for teachers on Monday, August 12, with students’ first day of school on Tuesday, August 13.
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