Supply chain issues delay elementary school opening

ELLIS COUNTY – An elementary school in Ellis County is delaying its opening due to global supply chain issues, according to a statement from the Midlothian ISD.

“Global supply chain issues have provided a setback to the construction of Jean Coleman Elementary.” The new elementary school was scheduled to open by the first day of school next month. With the global supply chain issues, the opening date has now been moved to January 2023.

“We strive to give each student the best education possible, and to do so; we need to ensure our classes each have their own classroom and do not have to share if possible,” stated Coleman Elementary Principal Kara Wendel.

“We want to ensure a safe learning environment for our students to thrive.”

The construction company has experienced multiple delays in various materials, causing the delay in finishing the elementary school construction.

Some of the materials that have been difficult to obtain in a timely manner include door hardware, linear lighting fixtures, glazing for storefront and curtain walls, and interior curtain wall interior framing.

As a contingency, the MISD and Coleman Elementary school staff are working on a plan to relocate Jean Coleman Elementary students to LaRue Miller Elementary and Frank Seale Middle School, where there are rooms available.

The delay will mean Coleman Elementary students will attend the alternate location during the first semester of 2022-2023.

“The district hopes to move Kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade students from Jean Coleman Elementary to LaRue Miller Elementary. Third, fourth and fifth graders from Jean Coleman Elementary will move to an empty wing at Frank Seale Middle School for the first semester. Administrators from Jean Coleman Elementary will be present on both campuses,” the release explained.

Students are expected to return to the Jean Coleman Elementary campus for the second semester of the 2022-2023 school year.

For parents interested in more information MISD will be providing an opportunity to talk with Coleman Elementary Principal Kara Wendel on August 1, at 6 p.m. at the L.A. Mills Administration Building Board Room.