LaGrange, IN — Lakeland School Corporation is moving forward with issuing two bonds to fund major facility projects across the district. These bonds will allow the district to address critical infrastructure needs, enhance safety and accessibility, and ensure that Lakeland students and staff have facilities designed to support learning well into the future.
Notably, Lakeland maintains the 7th lowest debt service rate of all schools in Indiana, underscoring the district’s commitment to financial stewardship. By law, bond funds cannot be used to pay staff salaries. Bonds are repaid through property tax revenue allocated to the Debt Service Fund.
Before determining which projects to include, the district conducted two independent facility studies, completed by Barton Coe Vilamaa Architects and Engineers and Elevatus Architecture. Both firms assessed Lakeland’s facilities, identifying high-, medium-, and low-priority needs. Based on those recommendations, and considering available bonding capacity, Lakeland selected projects that balance urgent needs with long-term planning.
Bond One: Lakeland Jr/Sr High School Improvements
The first bond will focus on targeted upgrades at Lakeland Jr/Sr High School, including:
● New Cafeteria – Replacing the original, outdated cafeteria, which currently has insufficient HVAC, roofing concerns, poor acoustics, and inadequate exits that do not meet modern safety standards.
● Office Addition & Secure Entrance – Expanding office space to include a secure entryway, additional offices, an appropriately sized nurse’s clinic, improved privacy, and an ADA-compliant restroom.
● Auditorium Renovation – Updating a long-overdue performance space so students can showcase their talents in a modern, well-equipped environment.
Bond Two: District-Wide Facility Enhancements
The second bond will fund improvements across multiple campuses, including:
● Lakeland Primary School – Completion of the second half of building refresh projects, including updated HVAC, carpeting, ceiling tiles, lighting, and paint in 2nd grade and specials classrooms. Plans also include a secure entrance, office renovation, and installation of new age-appropriate playground equipment.
● Wolcott Mills – Partial roof replacement and installation of preschool-appropriate playground equipment.
● Maintenance Facility – Construction of a new facility to house maintenance equipment and supplies in one location. The new facility will provide safe, efficient storage, allow for the relocation of gas and diesel tanks away from student areas, and support the district’s Learn to Work Program. The existing maintenance barn (near Miller Field) will be reskinned in Lakeland colors and repurposed for deliveries, paper storage, and athletic storage.
“Lakeland students deserve safe, efficient, and inspiring spaces to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Jerod Weimer, Maintenance Director. “These projects are investments not only in our facilities, but in the future of our district and community.”
Lakeland School Corporation remains committed to transparency and fiscal responsibility throughout this process. Updates will continue to be shared with families and community members as projects progress.