By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Everything is on the table
2-story buildings, new Calla campus being considered
lincon school
Lincoln Schools front entrance will be moved to Powers Avenue as part of the Measure M bond projects. - photo by HIME ROMERO /The Bulletin

Two-story classroom buildings are in the realm of possibility for Manteca High.

That’s because Manteca Unified is exploring all modernization options to maximize the effectiveness of the $159 million Measure M bond and to make sure all campuses end up being as functional as possible.

“Everything is on the table,” noted Deputy Superintendent Clark Burke.

While two-story classrooms may be a longshot they could be considered once the needs and limitations of the Manteca High campus are explored.

It is all part of an in-house vetting process for all of the district’s 30 plus campuses to make sure the bond money effectively positions campuses to be effective learning centers for years to come.

To illustrate how facility needs are being explored, Burke noted one option being looked at for the aging Calla High campus that serves as a continuation high school is to possibly build a new campus on part of the land the district acquired years ago along Tinnin Road south of Manteca for a sixth comprehensive high school.

The two campuses — a potential replacement for Calla and the sixth comprehensive campus — could piggyback off each other when it comes to site improvements to reduce costs. Weston Ranch High shares a site in much the same manner with the New Vision High continuation campus.

Calla High is currently located on the edge of Manteca along East Highway 120 at the Austin Road intersection that, as Burke noted, isn’t a great location when it comes to traffic safety. The campus is also one of the oldest in the district.

High schools won’t be addressed until a third wave of bond projects.

Staff is currently waiting on clearance for the phase one modernization projects from the State Division of Architecture. Once the plans get approved the board will then be asked whether to proceed.

The first campuses targeted are Lincoln, Shasta, Golden West, Sequoia, and Lathrop elementary schools. Not only are they among the oldest but they are also ones that are eligible for state matching funds when money becomes available.

Burke noted that once the projects are underway they go in line for future state bond money when it is available. It is widely expected that when a school bond is put before the voters and if it is approved that it will barely cover projects that have been completed or started.

The matching money would be applied to other school projects.

The second round of school modernizations will also target elementary schools.

Burke noted that a more detailed and intense look at Manteca High may not occur for another 1 ½ years. At that time the district will weigh things such as including a tower in some form as part of the modernization.

The tower was torn down on Oct. 3, 1969. A number of alumni and Manteca residents would like to see it brought back.

Clarke said if it can be done if it makes sense financially as well as from a functionality standpoint, the tower might happen although it is likely it won’t be a replica in the truest sense.

If there is any use on the second floor it would require an elevator to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act standards. He noted that any two-story building would require an elevator. Two-story structures for schools are more expensive per square foot compared to a one-story structure due to earthquake safety standards. That contrasts with traditional single family homes where the cost per square foot drops when a second floor is added.

 

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com