Bibb County Board approves $5.5M math resources and Northwoods Academy gymnasium funding

The Bibb County Board of Education made significant strides in educational resources during its April 17, 2025, meeting, with a focus on mathematics instructional materials and infrastructure improvements.

The board unanimously approved a motion to adopt new mathematics instructional resources, allocating up to $5,515,711.09 for textbooks and digital materials for the 2025-2026 school year. This decision comes as the current resources are set to expire at the end of the 2024-2025 term, marking a crucial update to the district's educational tools.

In addition to the math resources, the board discussed renovations for the Innovation and Technology Academy, which is undergoing a phased upgrade. The second phase of renovations was approved, allowing for architectural services to enhance the facility, which will support programs in cybersecurity and robotics. This phase is funded through ESSER funding and is expected to be completed by July 2025.

Another highlight was the approval for the construction of a gymnasium at Northwoods Academy, addressing a critical need for physical education facilities for elementary students. The gymnasium will provide essential space for physical activities, especially during inclement weather, and is seen as a vital addition to the school’s infrastructure.

The board also approved the purchase of 10 new school buses, utilizing $1,499,000 from the 2021 East Blost funding. This purchase aims to modernize the district's aging fleet, which has seen an average age reduction from 13 years to 9 years since 2014.

Lastly, the board moved forward with a significant investment in technology by approving the purchase of student Chromebooks for $2,919,243.58, which will be financed over four years. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance digital learning across the district.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to improving educational resources and infrastructure, ensuring that students in Bibb County have access to modern tools and facilities that support their learning and development.