USD234 Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided an update on the district’s new preschool facility at 904 Horton, which has been an ongoing project for several years.
This former medical clinic is being transformed into a modern preschool.
Background on the Project
“The district purchased the building during the 2023–24 school year with the long-term goal of creating a dedicated early childhood and preschool facility,” Mayfield said in a press release. “Following the purchase, the project timeline extended longer than originally anticipated for several reasons: the previous owner/tenant remained in the building through Fall 2024, which delayed demolition and construction activities. Once the building was fully vacated, the district completed demolition of the first floor to open the space for preschool use.”
Additionally, as the project moved forward, the scope was revised due to budget constraints, updating designs with engineers and architects, addressing structural needs (excavation, foundation waterproofing, and drainage improvements), he said
“While these steps added time, they are important to ensure the building is safe, functional, and durable for long-term use as a school facility,” he said.
About the Program
“The Fort Scott USD 234 preschool program provides early childhood education for young learners, with a strong focus on school readiness, social-emotional development, and foundational academic skills,” said Mayfield. “The program also serves as the district’s early childhood special education site, supporting students with identified disabilities as well as children considered at risk.”
The current preschool center is located at 409 S. Judson. Services for the district’s preschool program are located at this site and also Winfield Scott Elementary School.
“Bringing these services together in one purpose-built facility will improve coordination, accessibility, and overall support for students and families,” he said.
Current Status and Timeline
“Excavation and waterproofing work is currently underway, with interior shoring in the final stages of approval. Once approved, shoring installation is expected to begin in mid-January and be completed within a couple of weeks. Architectural plan development is ongoing, with a revised timeline targeting final plan approval and submission to the construction manager, Crossland Construction, by June. Bidding and Board approval of pricing are anticipated in July, followed by a late July construction start. Project completion and turnover to the district are projected for late November to early December 2026.”
“In addition, playground equipment for the site has already been manufactured and is ready for delivery. Installation is planned for late January or early February, with an on-site coordination meeting scheduled to finalize logistics and align the work with ongoing site activities.”
Current Enrollment and Capacity
“The preschool program currently serves approximately 120 students. Enrollment typically grows throughout the school year as children age into the program. At present, the district operates two preschool classrooms in the existing preschool building and utilizes two additional classrooms at Winfield Scott Elementary to accommodate enrollment.”
“The new facility will initially include four dedicated preschool classrooms, allowing the district to fully serve current enrollment in one centralized location. The building has also been designed with future expansion in mind, including the potential to add an additional classroom as enrollment needs grow.”
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