Published: April 08, 2008 09:52 pm         

School board tours new stadium, auditorium construction sites

By David Wilfong

Herald-Banner Staff



The RCISD board of trustees got a sneak peek at the new facilities going up at Royse City High School last Thursday evening during a special meeting which began with a tour of the stadium and auditorium construction sites.

The touring party ascended to the press box by scaffolding steps, but once inside RCISD Board President Bobby Summers reported that they were excited by what they saw.

“Spectacular,” Summers noted. “I am so pleased with the workmanship and the pride that is going into this project. I want the entire community to be proud of what is going on out at the high school. We are truly blessed to be able to provide such a structure that I am sure will be a landmark in our school system. This facility will be the best in the entire area. The stadium is in a perfect location and I can't wait until this fall and the grand opening.”

He had similar reactions to what he saw in the new auditorium.

“The fine arts building is an added feature that completes our school. Not only the building but the program's that will benefit from it's usage are endless. It is a 750 seat auditorium with state of the art acoustics. A very large stage and with capabilities for anything from community gatherings to Broadway type musicals or drama productions,” Summers said.

Summers also looks forward to seeing what happens when the new facilities are crossed with the ambitions of Royse City students.

“Now, with the talent and skill of our students, we could be giving someone a chance to become a professional athlete, Broadway star, speech and debate champion or go just about anywhere your imagination could take you,” he said. “The technology alone that will be included in the stadium and auditorium will be one of the best learning tools you could offer to anyone. From scoreboard features, to sound mix, lighting and even television and radio, students will have a very broad range of learning experiences.”

Superintendent Randy Hancock reports that construction is “about 70-75 percent complete” and that the district still anticipates completion in July.

“I wanted them to see some of the intricacies of the construction,” Hancock said of the reason behind the special tour. “We’re often asked why construction projects for schools can cost so much. When you have the opportunity to see some of the work that goes into these things it helps to understand that. We expect these structures to last 50, 60, 70 years. I wanted them to get the chance to see some of these things (plumbing, wiring, etc.) before they get covered up. To go inside that auditorium right now is just unbelievable.

“The building is covered in scaffolding from floor to ceiling throughout. When you see that, you can say ‘Yes, that’s why it’s expensive’.”

In later action back at the district offices, the school board canceled the upcoming election as no one other than the incumbent members filed to run.