PICKENS COUNTY – The Pickens County School District has begun its makeover, beginning with ten elementary schools around the county this summer, but all renovations will be complete by Aug. 26, the date that teachers go back to school said contractors.

School District of Pickens County Superintendent Dr. Henry Hunt said he has been meeting weekly with building contractors and they have assured him that buildings will be ready by teacher’s first day back.

“They said we will be able to occupy the building, but of course, there will be some places in the buildings that we won’t be able to use,” said Hunt.

There were three major renovations that took place over the summer at elementary schools around the district.

Some schools needed more classroom space in order to do away with portables.

Some schools needed modified entrances in order to be safe and secure and follow along with Hunt’s goal of a secure school during the school day.

Others needed an upgrade in the technology infrastructure. Wiring was put in each school in order to provide a wireless environment for laptops.

Site work is nearing completion at Easley, Liberty and Pickens high school sites; construction bids should be solicited on those three high schools by the end of the year.

The project will total approximately $365 million.

For more information or to keep up with updates visit www.pickens.k12.sc.us and click on Building Features.