Students win approval for new Kennett High School sign with LED features; board encourages alumni support

Students from Kennett High School presented a proposed new sign for the high school entrance and the Board of School Directors approved the construction proposal on March 11.

The student presenters described a curved sign with LED illumination, spotlights for 24-hour visibility and etched lettering reading "Kennett High School." They said the LED lights could be programmed for special occasions (for example, red-white-and-blue lighting for the Fourth of July). The presentation referenced strong student support and alumni interest; one board member suggested contacting the alumni association (current president Bob George) to pursue donations and a dedication plaque to offset costs.

Board discussion included: the expected maintenance (power washing for a limestone structure), visible height concerns and safety (to avoid encouraging climbing), and a suggestion to include the school’s construction/opening year on the sign; students said they would consider that. A budget figure cited during conversation was approximately $150,630 (as discussed by trustees and students during the presentation).

The board voted to approve the sign project and encouraged the student team to continue community outreach and fundraising to defray costs.

Next steps: district staff and the student design team will coordinate final materials, permitting and fundraising outreach; installation was discussed as part of upcoming summer work windows.