District approves $60K for auditorium rigging electrical upgrades at Cypress High School

In a recent Board of Education Administrative Session held on March 4, 2025, significant discussions centered around the ongoing construction and renovation projects within the district, particularly the transition from Cypress High School to a new facility. The meeting highlighted the efforts of district staff in preparing for the relocation of furniture and teachers, as well as the completion of essential infrastructure, such as elevator inspections.

One of the key topics was a change order related to the auditorium rigging system. The district's engagement with a third-party design consultant aimed to enhance the auditorium's functionality, but it revealed some discrepancies in the original electrical design. The contractor, Westland, acknowledged a gap in the scope of work, leading to a necessary adjustment in the electrical setup. The change order, amounting to $60,000, was deemed essential for the system's performance and was reduced from an initial estimate of $83,000 after accounting for credits due to previous oversights.

Board members expressed concerns about potential future change orders as the project nears completion. While some additional changes are anticipated, they are not expected to exceed the threshold requiring board review. Discussions included the need for flexibility in classroom setups and the integration of modern technology in Career and Technical Education (CTE) labs, which may lead to further adjustments as new equipment is selected.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to ensuring that the new facilities meet the evolving needs of students and staff. As the construction progresses, the board will continue to monitor developments and address any emerging issues to facilitate a smooth transition to the new educational environment.