SPS breaks ground on nearly $20M Bissett renovation, addition

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Springfield Public Schools broke ground July 7 on an extensive renovation and partial addition of Bissett Elementary School

Superintendent Grenita Lathan joined Bissett educators and families to celebrate the start of the $19.9 million project at 3014 W. Calhoun St.

“We are not just updating a building – we are modernizing a space to meet the educational needs of our students now and for decades to come,” Lathan said in a news release.

The project, expected to take roughly a year, will be paid for by leftover funds from the $220 million bond issue approved by voters in 2023. In addition to updates, the district will add about 10,000 square feet of classroom space and a gymnasium that doubles as a storm shelter.

During the upcoming year, Bissett students and staff will relocate to a building known as Old Sherwood at Sunshine Street and Scenic Avenue. The project is expected to be completed during the fall 2027 semester.

The SPS Board of Education hired Crossland Construction Co. Inc. to build the addition. Other companies involved in the project include Olsson Inc., Oke-Thomas Associates Inc., and Interpres Building Solutions LLC.

“While these construction crews will build the walls, the classrooms and the hallways – together we will build something even greater,” said Bissett Principal Jennifer Allie, in the release.

“A place where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is developed, friendships are formed and every child believes they can achieve great things.”