BUSD remodels Bonsall West entrances for safety

The Bonsall Union School District approved a contract with MGPA Architecture, Inc., for architect work to remodel the entrance configuration at Bonsall West Elementary School.

The 5-0 BUSD board vote Nov. 14 authorized the architectural contract with MGPA to revise the gate and fencing structure. The changes will ensure that visitors can be observed by school staff in the school’s administrative office.

“Safety of the children is always foremost,” said BUSD superintendent Justin Cunningham. “Any time we see something where we can improve that, we want to take those steps.”

The configuration of Bonsall Elementary School routes visitors through the front office. “At Bonsall West, they come in the back door of the office,” Cunningham said.

“The parents can come onto the campus, but they don’t have to go through the office,” Cunningham said. “You can’t keep the campus as secure.”

BUSD staff recommended a revision to the existing gate and fence structure. “It’s not exactly the best security situation,” Cunningham said. “It’s nice to know who’s coming in before they’re there.”

The architectural design, which has an estimated cost of $6,500, is the first phase of the project. The work will also require state Department of School Architecture approval prior to the construction itself, which carries an estimated $35,000 cost.