On November 10, the Huntsville City Board of Education welcomed a new member, conducted a Board reorganization, received updates on major construction projects across the district, and approved new owner/architect agreements.
New Board Member Sworn In and Board Reorganization
Prior to the work session, Payten Redfearn was sworn in as the new District 3 representative on the Huntsville City Schools Board of Education.
Redfearn succeeds Andrea Alvarez, who did not seek reelection. Alvarez was recognized for her service to the district during the Board's October 27 meeting.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Board conducted a reorganization to determine leadership positions, where there were no changes to existing roles.
Board President: Carlos Mathews
Board Vice President: Ryan Renaud
Third Presiding Officer: Holly McCarty
Lee High School and New Century Technology High School Campus Improvements
The Board approved plans for a proposed $14 million renovation and expansion of the shared Lee High School and New Century Technology High School campus.
The project is designed to improve campus functionality, maximize available space, and better support the academic and extracurricular needs of both schools.
Planned improvements include:
A new administrative area for New Century Technology High School staff.
Renovations to the existing black-box theater to better accommodate everyday use.
Classroom relocations and reconfigurations to better support instructional programs.
Expanded seating in the competition gymnasium.
Additional gymnasium storage, concessions, restrooms, and improved access for events.
Archemy Architects has been identified as the architect for the project.
The project is expected to go out for bids in May 2027. Construction on the gymnasium and specialty spaces would begin afterward, with gymnasium construction anticipated to take approximately one year. Most interior renovations are planned for summer 2028.
$16.5 Million in High School Athletic Field and Track Improvements
The Board also reviewed a proposed $16.5 million initiative to improve athletic facilities at all five HCS high schools and Milton Frank Stadium.
The project calls for renovations to existing fields and tracks at the five high schools, including the installation of multipurpose artificial turf and rubberized synthetic tracks.
Additional improvements to fencing, concessions, restrooms, parking, scoreboards, goals, and goalposts will be evaluated based on the needs of each location.
The project also includes replacement of the artificial turf at Milton Frank Stadium.
HNP Architects has been identified as the architect for the project, with a proposed base architectural fee of $690,000.
Under the proposed timeline, work at Milton Frank Stadium is expected to be completed before the start of the 2027 football season. Improvements at the remaining high schools will be phased in over subsequent years to minimize disruptions to athletic seasons.
Capital Plan Update
The Board of Education received an update on the district's ongoing Capital Plan, highlighting completed construction projects, facilities currently under development, and upcoming improvements.
Recent completed projects include the opening of the Columbia High School JROTC Complex in October 2026 and the new addition at McNair Middle School, which opened in August 2026.
Several major projects remain underway, with anticipated opening dates including:
Montview and Magnet Elementary School: August 2027
Chapman and Magnet Middle School: January 2028
Huntsville Middle School: August 2028
McDonnell Elementary School Gymnasium: May 2027
Farley Elementary School Gymnasium: May 2027
Rolling Hills Elementary School Gymnasium: May 2027
Blossomwood Elementary School AV Room: May 2027
The district is also continuing its initiative to replace older pod gymnasiums with new facilities. Gymnasium projects are in progress at McDonnell, Rolling Hills, and Farley elementary schools, with future projects planned at Ridgecrest and Weatherly elementary schools. Projects have been completed at Chaffee and Highlands elementary schools.
Additional projects in design include:
Weatherly Elementary School: Design approximately 65% complete
Ridgecrest Elementary School: Design approximately 65% complete
Monte Sano Elementary School: Design approximately 85% complete
Dawson Elementary School: Design approximately 35% complete
These improvements are part of the district's ongoing investment in modernizing school facilities and supporting student learning environments.
District Operations and Services
The Board also reviewed two contract renewals supporting district operations.
Modular Classroom Buildings: A proposed one-year renewal with Mobile Modular Management Corporation for portable classrooms at Monte Sano Elementary School. The anticipated annual rental expenditure is $42,912, excluding one-time setup and return fees that are not expected during the renewal period.
Pizza Delivery Services: A proposed contract renewal with Domino's Pizza at a negotiated price of $8.50 per cheese or pepperoni pizza, with no additional delivery charge.
Additional Board Business
Other agenda items included consideration of the district's Human Resources Report, Professional Services Agreement Report, and owner/architect agreements related to upcoming capital improvement projects.
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