JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Marion County’s Board of Education (BoE) has agreed to begin looking into upgrading Whitwell Middle School’s auditorium sound system.
During the meeting, Board Member Linda Hooper pointed out ongoing issues surrounding WMS’s sound system, explaining how the issue was noticed during a play performed by Whitwell High School students in the school’s auditorium. She suggested to have the board begin looking into the matter and finding out what the costs would be to have the auditorium’s entire sound system be fixed and upgraded.
“The sound system at Whitwell Middle School is a disgrace,” Hooper said. “The high school did a wonderful play this past week and you could barely understand anything that was said.”
Hooper explained the system’s issues stems from age and overall usage after years of use, noting that the yearly school plays has caused the system to show signs of degradation. She felt if the issue is left unaddressed, it would not allow for a fair experience for all involved.
“Our kids do a wonderful job with these plays that they do,” Hooper said. “I think we need to spend some money on the arts.”
Mark Griffith, Director of Schools for Marion County, made the suggestion to allow all specifications be conducted and reviewed by the BoE prior to an RFP (Request for Proposal) being made to begin work on the project, with all members of the board agreeing to his suggestion.