possible to make sure we could withstand the next five to ten years.” AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING: THE STUDENTS When asked what keeps him motivated after decades in the district, Hunter gives an answer that is both simple and profound. “If we’re not doing everything we can to give kids the best experience possible, we’re in the wrong profession. Kids are what matter. Everything else is secondary.” the state. Hunter credits aggressive planning and preventive maintenance for keeping the district ahead of economic downturns. Every building has been renovated in the last five years. Furniture has been replaced districtwide. HVAC systems, controls, and LED lighting have all been upgraded. The district’s buildings are positioned to remain modern and efficient for the next decade without major capital strain. Hunter saw the downturn coming and prepared accordingly. “I didn’t know exactly how bad it would be, but I knew it was coming,” he says. “We did everything 290 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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