On Tuesday, March 5th, Buhler USD 313, Simpson Construction Services, and Landmark Architects proudly announces the commencement of renovations for their future Crusader Corner Daycare and Ad Astra Academies facilities.
This milestone project represents a significant step forward in addressing the critical need for childcare in our community while also enhancing educational opportunities for young learners. As part of the Reno County Childcare Task Force initiative, Buhler Schools has secured the prestigious Accelerator and Innovation Grant, amounting to nearly $600,000. This grant is dedicated to renovating spaces at Buhler Grade School and a purchased property located at 56th and Plum. In accordance with grant requirements, local entities are tasked with raising a percentage of matching funds. The Buhler Education Foundation, in close partnership with USD 313, has undertaken the commitment to raise $150,000 in matching funds. Community members and supporters are encouraged to contribute by donating online today at usd313.org. The renovated facilities will offer a combined total of 90 slots for children from birth to 3 years old, distributed between the two locations. These renovations and expansion in childcare services reflects Buhler Schools' dedication to serving their staff, families, and the broader community. "We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey alongside Simpson Construction Services and Landmark Architects," stated Cindy Couchman, Superintendent of Buhler USD 313. "By expanding our daycare services and renovating the Ad Astra Academies, we are not only helping meet the immediate needs of our district staff and community, but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future for our students."
The demand for quality childcare continues to grow, and Buhler Schools are proud to play a pivotal role in addressing this pressing issue. Through collaborative efforts and community support, the future Crusader Corner Daycare and Ad Astra Academies facility and the renovations to Buhler Elementary will help provide a nurturing environment where children can thrive and flourish.
Additionally, improvements will be made to the USD 313 Ad Astra Academies building. The Ad Astra Virtual Academy was established in 2021 and has quickly grown to include more than 150 students and spawned an alternative school, Ad Astra Alternative Academy, necessitating the need for additional and dedicated space for these students and staff. The mission of the Ad Astra Virtual Academy is to provide an exceptional, innovative, technology-based education that prepares students for colleges, careers, and the global community.
All projects are targeted for completion by Fall of 2024. The project is designed by Landmark Architects of Hutchinson, Kansas, and Simpson Construction of Wichita, Kansas will serve as the construction manager on the project.
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About Buhler USD 313: The Buhler school district is 137.7 square miles in size and encompasses the town of Buhler and parts of the north and east of the city of Hutchinson. USD 313 has three elementary schools (Pre-K through 5), one middle school (6-8), one high school (9-12), a virtual school (K-12), and an alternative school (9-12). Buhler educates approximately 2,300 students.
About Simpson Construction Services: Simpson Construction Services is a leading commercial contractor that has been building in Kansas for over 65 years. Our fourth-generation family-owned company delivers commercial construction services across multiple industries with integrity, efficiency, responsiveness, and client satisfaction.
About Landmark Architects: Landmark is a professional architecture firm with broad experience in projects of all kinds. Since 1934, we have used close client interaction as the basis of an architectural practice built around imagination, integrity, and personal service.
