Asheville, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Asheville City Schools is improving security and infrastructure ahead of the new academic year. Key upgrades include a new security entrance and HVAC systems, ensuring a safer and more comfortable environment for students and staff. Renovations are ongoing at multiple elementary schools, with plans for future enhancements to meet educational demands. The school year begins soon, providing students with upgraded facilities and safety measures.
Asheville City Schools is set to enhance security and infrastructure ahead of the 2025-26 school year. Significant improvements were made during the summer across various schools in the district, focusing primarily on safety and modernization.
Lucy Herring Elementary School now boasts a new three-lock security vestibule entrance designed specifically for guest access, which allows parents and visitors to drop off items safely without entering the school building. This upgrade brings an increased level of safety for students and staff, as it minimizes unauthorized access to the facility. Asheville City Schools’ Chief of Operations emphasizes that these safety enhancements contribute greatly to overall campus safety.
In addition to security upgrades, Lucy Herring Elementary has also received a new HVAC system, updated windows, and renovated bathrooms, ensuring better comfort and sanitation for students and staff as the school year commences. Similarly, Claxton Elementary School has undergone improvements to its cooling system, catering to the needs of students and faculty during warmer months.
Asheville High School has also seen an array of enhancements, including fresh bus lane striping, renovations to the gym and auditorium, and upgrades to its HVAC system. The district’s internal HVAC and construction team plays a crucial role in prioritizing maintenance measures based on facility records and system age. This strategy allows the schools to ensure regularly scheduled upkeep and upgrades.
Plans for further improvements are already underway. Hall Fletcher Elementary is set for renovations similar to those completed at Lucy Herring, with construction expected to start in the upcoming weeks. Funding for these renovation projects comes from county commissioners and the school board’s allocated capital funding.
Looking ahead, Asheville City Schools will conduct a feasibility study this year to assess and augment classroom infrastructure, aiming to meet future educational demands. With a focus on creating a safer and more modern environment for learning, the district is committed to continuous improvement.
The school year for Asheville City Schools begins on August 25, providing students with new facilities and enhanced security measures as they return to the classroom.
Key Features of Asheville City Schools Renovations
- Security Enhancements: New three-lock vestibules and drop-off windows for guest access at Lucy Herring Elementary.
- HVAC Systems: New installations and upgrades at multiple schools, improving indoor air quality and comfort.
- Renovations: Updated bathrooms, windows, and facilities at various schools including gym and auditorium remodels at Asheville High School.
- Future Plans: Ongoing assessments and upgrades to classrooms scheduled for evaluation this year.
- Funding Sources: County commissioners and school board’s capital funding finance renovation projects.
FAQs
What security enhancements have been made at Asheville City Schools?
New three-lock security vestibules and guest drop-off windows have been installed at Lucy Herring Elementary to improve safety.
When does the school year start?
The school year for Asheville City Schools begins on August 25.
What other improvements have been made at the schools?
In addition to security upgrades, schools have received new HVAC systems, updated windows, renovated bathrooms, and other facility renovations.
Who funds these renovation projects?
The funding comes from the county commissioners and the school board’s capital funding.
Are there any plans for future renovations?
Yes, Hall Fletcher Elementary is set to undergo renovations, and a feasibility study to enhance classrooms will be conducted this year.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville City Schools Upgrades
- Times of India: What’s New at Asheville Schools
- MSN: Asheville Schools Updates
- New York Times: Asheville Hurricane Damage
- Mountain X: ACS Student Positions
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
