Lexington County School District One is planning for the future, specifically addressing its facility needs. Several initiatives are underway to provide options for the school board to consider.

Superintendent Gerrita Postlewait said the district’s current goal is to understand demographic trends, obtain expert analysis of its facilities and learn about successful facility models that serve both students and the community.

Postlewait noted that the district wants to explore more modern approaches for the Career and Technology Education (CTE) Center, located at 2421 Augusta Hwy. in Lexington. This is a small component of a comprehensive facility study  that is ongoing in the district.

All schools will be looked at and will be given a report for officials to review. The district stated they have a stronger understanding of current trends  in elementary, middle and high school construction. However, they want to look outside the district to see different models for the CTE building. 

"The study is evaluating the physical state of facilities, educational adequacy, and long-term maintenance requirements while also considering future student growth and instructional needs. The goal is to develop a strategic plan that prioritizes facility improvements, ensures equitable learning environments, and prepares for long-term capital investments.''

The CTE Center, which is 50 years old, is one of the focuses. Before the district moves forward with construction plans in the upcoming years, it wants to explore the best facility models to meet the needs of both students and the community.

Over a year ago, the district began researching facility models, looking at models from around the country, searching for what will best meet the needs of Lexington One.

A couple of weeks ago, seven district representatives traveled to Forney, Texas, to tour a new building. 

The building, named the Keith Bell Opportunity Central Campus, is a mixed-used facility designed to support high school students in career and technical education programs such as cosmetology, construction trades, education and more.

The Opportunity Central Campus integrates apprenticeships and internships for students, particularly on the first floor. That area features boutiques, restaurants, entertainment and retail, all operated by students who apply what they’ve learned in their programs.

The Opportunity Central Campus serves not only students but also the local community, endeavoring to meet a variety of needs. According to the campus website, it remains open in the evenings and available on the weekends for students and for community activities.

Postlewait said that additional visits to other facilities in other states will take place in the future. The district will continue this work for the next year or so. The district will continue this work for the next year or so.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m., in the auditorium of Lexington One Central Services Building One, located at 100 Tarrar Springs Rd. in Lexington. 

This article has been edited since its original publication.