Underwood School Building and Additions
In 1998, voters approved an $8.2 million bond to fund a renovation and new construction project at the Underwood School. It increased the school from 68,950 square feet to 147,090 square feet, with the additional square footage attached to the original structure. The entire building sits on the the original 8.5 acres of school property. Construction started in the spring of 1999 and the facility was ready for use for the start of classes in the fall of 2000.
As part of the project, the School District sold three portable classrooms (300 square feet). The second floor of the 1921 and 1938 additions were converted to storage and space for air handling equipment. The old lunchroom was converted into a K-12 Media Center and the old Media Center was converted into two classrooms and a computer lab. The previous elementary classrooms were converted to high school classrooms.
The new construction of the elementary education areas provided adequate space to continue to expand and grow. The construction of the new science classrooms provided modern and efficient laboratory space for science classes that will enhance and aid Underwood students. The new commons area provides a positive environment for breakfast and hot lunch programs, student interaction before, during and after school, and use by the community and school for various social events. The new kitchen facility has increased the efficiency of the food service program. The new gymnasium has increased the option for indoor activities for all grades, improved the scheduling of physical education classes, and has assisted in completing practice at reasonable hours after school. The new gym bleachers have a seating capacity of 1,956 people. The new administrative offices are located near the main entrance, allowing for improved access by students and the public.
The following picture shows the current building profile and the year each section was constructed.
