Photo: The modular classrooms at Del Rio School in Chino Valley
The following is a construction update for the Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) that includes three major projects- a Heating and Air Conditioning upgrade, parking lot paving, and a gas line replacement.
CVUSD HVAC Project
The CVUSD has begun a long awaited Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) project that includes a $24 million system wide upgrade, funded in full by the School Facilities Oversight Board (SFB).
During the project, which is expected to last 18 months, modular classrooms will be set up allowing teachers and students to vacate four classrooms at a time while work is being completed.
The project has begun at the Del Rio School and Heritage Middle School campuses, where modular classrooms have been delivered and are being made ready for the first round of relocation. Territorial Early Childhood Center and Chino Valley High School will follow.
District staff stresses that this isn’t just a convenience and comfort issue but has been designed for the health and safety of both staff and students.
“It’s a health and safety issue really,” said John Scholl, CVUSD Superintendent. “During certain times of the year our swamp coolers are not effective enough to cool the classroom so that it’s appropriate for learning and teaching.”
The Arizona Dept. of Education and the Arizona Dept. of Health Services have stated that classroom temperatures should not exceed 82 F.
“When it’s hot, when it’s humid, and you add 30 bodies inside a 900 square foot room, it doesn’t take much to get to that temperature,” added Scholl.
Until the project’s completion, the CVUSD has steps in place, including remote learning, as outlined in the Districts Excessive Heat Procedures. These procedures are available by contacting the individual campuses, info found at www.chinovalleyschools.com.
Del Rio School (DRS) Parking lot paving
Paving of the DRS Main Office parking lot on the corner of W Road 2 N and N Road 1 W will take place in September, exact dates to be determined.
Access to the lot on W Road 2 N will be closed, access will be made via N Road 1 W near the staff parking lot and the visitor lot, across from the gazebo. An attendant will be on site during the project to assist with traffic and ingress and egress.
The existing dirt and gravel lot creates safety issues in inclement weather and is in dire need of replacement. Due to drainage issues, the project is expected to take up to eight weeks to complete. Once the project begins the public is encouraged to allow extra travel time through the area.
This project is being funded by both Adjacent Ways emergency access funds and capital funds.
Please follow CVUSD social media outlets (Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram all @CVSchoolsAZ) for ongoing updates before and during the project.
Chino Valley High School Gas line
Construction crews will begin the replacement of a natural gas line at CVHS with the project estimated to be completed sometime in October.
“It was determined that the system couldn’t hold pressure, which affects the heating system, parts of the kitchen and cafeteria, and hot water heaters that of course affect the restrooms,” said Scholl.
The project, funded entirely with SFB funds, will be completed before the heating systems need to be put into use.
Please visit chinovalleyschools.com or email info@chinovalleyschools.com for more information.
