Joplin breaks ground on major renovations at two elementary schools
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Two of Joplin's oldest elementary schools are getting major upgrades as the district moves forward with its voter-approved $40 million bond program.
Groundbreaking ceremonies were held Thursday at Stapleton and Eastmorland elementary schools.
This will improve campus security, modernize classrooms and address traffic congestion.
At Stapleton, plans include a 6,500-square-foot addition for early childhood and special education classrooms, an expanded cafeteria, renovated library and new play fields.
A redesigned entrance and two-lane parent drop-off area will also help separate buses from other vehicles.
Eastmorland will receive a 1,800-square-foot addition featuring a secure entrance, administrative offices and a nurse's area.
Improvements also include expanded kindergarten and special education facilities, a dedicated gifted education classroom, cafeteria renovations and a new parent drop-off drive.
Joplin Board of Education member Rylee Hartwell called Thursday's ceremonies a meaningful moment for students, educators and the surrounding neighborhoods.
"These schools have been part of Joplin's story for generations, and today, we helped begin their next chapter," Hartwell wrote.
The improvements are part of the Eagle Bond approved by voters in April.
