Board approves Merl Taylor pre‑K conversion project estimate after cost reductions

The Jacksonville North Pulaski School District board approved proceeding with the Merl Taylor pre‑K conversion after receiving a design and budget update.

Mark Hansbury presented the second phase of design and pricing and said initial fall 2025 estimates were near $8 million but that work with the design team reduced the scope and price; the current second‑phase estimate was reported as $6,104,17 in the presentation (transcript formatting noted). Aaron Sanderson of W Architects described site changes that included removing portable units, adding roughly 41 parking spots (some gravel), a new kitchen entry for deliveries, and a new vestibule and transaction window for secure check‑ins. The plan identifies 12 new classrooms sized for pre‑K use, renovated kitchen equipment, accessible restrooms and child‑appropriate casework and sinks in each classroom.

Hansbury said drawings had been submitted to the State Department of Education and the district will advertise for bids after state approval and then return to the board with a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). The board moved and approved the action item to proceed with the project and the procurement process.