Laurelhurst Blog: Dramatic Improvements at Laurelhurst Elementary This Summer

If you haven't driven by the Laurelhurst Elementary School in the last few weeks, there have been some major cosmetic improvements that have been underway this summer.

The f irst one being all new windows at the school. Every single window has been replaced with new sparkling window panes and fresh paint around every window. And behind every window are new cream-colored shades.

Mike Skutack, Constuction Project Manager with Seattle Public Schools, tells us that the "Our building is benefiting from the Building, Technology and Academics BTA II Levy, which was approved by voters and funds multiple projects throughout Seattle Public Schools."

Here is a previous post we did in June about the list of specific upgrades voters approved through the BTA levy for the school with a budget of $944,952.00.

The school, which was built in the 1920's, was in need of the renovation and maintenance updates as Principal Kathy Jolly said in a letter sent to families before summer break.

Also completed over the last 2 months at the school is re-reroofing, seismic improvements, potable water line replacement that includes new faucets, bubblers and water fountains and classroom countertop replacement Mike told us.

The kindergarten room is currently being completed with new storefront windows and new paint making for an almost completely new make-over. During this renovation, as can be seen from the pictures, the construction crew completely took apart the storefront area to replace and repair it covering the exposed area with a tarp every night.
Mike told us that what is left is completion of the new boiler plant.

He says all the work will be completed by the start of school on September 8th.

Mike said, "I’m really really pleased with the look of the windows. It makes for a dramatic improvement to the buildings appearance. Also the new boiler plant and new double pane windows are designed to help reduce energy consumption at the building."

And he says to pass along his thanks to the community at Laurelhurst for their patience during the construction.

"The work at Laurelhurst Elementary will help build the foundation to meet our commitment of excellence for all students," Mike told us.