OAKES sbnhz|var|u0026u|referrer|nehbd||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
(NewsDakota.com) The Oakes School board has given the green light to start work on a centralized office for the elementary, high school and district, as well as improvements to the district’s library.

Currently, the district office is on the second floor of the high school, the high school office is on the third floor, and the elementary office is located in the elementary school building.

Superintendent Josh Johnson says the plan is to move all three offices to a centralized location; presently the walkway area between the elementary and high school buildings.  Johnson explains the benefits of a central office.

In addition, the district plans to double the size of the current library, including adding a computer lab, and additional classroom space.

Johnson says talks with an architect for the project have begun and will continue through December. Bidding will most likely be done by January 2015, with construction starting sometime in Spring 2015.

The estimated cost is at $1.8 million with existing district funds to play for the project; meaning no tax increases for residences who live within the district.