It appears the new middle school science lab at Shelbyville ISD will be ready to use when the new school year begins next month.

Superintendent Dr. Ray West tells us the contractor has assured him he'll sign-off on the project in August.

Dr. West said the science lab and construction of a new gym was part of a $2.7 million construction projected built by funds on hand. He added the gym will likely be ready for use in September.

Dr. West said the new gym will be used primarily by high school and junior high school girls' athletics, especially with girls' volleyball set to begin in Shelbyville. He noted the decision to build the new gym came about when the old gym suffered water damage.

In another item, Dr. West said the board took no action at Monday night's meeting on the Level III parent grievance complaint that was discussed in executive session, and he mentioned the Shelbyville ISD Board will meet at noon, Aug. 11 for a Budget workshop.

He says although property valuations have not been made official, the preliminary information is that values could be down.