Civil Municipal - Oct 2023

236 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 10 are currently in use on the International Space Station, Ingle reveals. They design and produce tools ranging from tape dispensers to stabilization bars that astronauts utilize. This several-year initiative provides students with a concrete link to the expansive realm of STEM, illustrating the real-world relevance of their classroom studies. Investing in Infrastructure Dade County Schools’ pledge to provide a top-tier educational environment is evident in its strategic investments in infrastructure. “Our school board has always been wise stewards of the resources,” Ingle begins. The district ensures its facilities are well-maintained and up-to-date through state- level funding and a local sales tax initiative. “We’ve been fortunate to have that $0.01 [sales tax] that the voters approve... It’s called SPLOST, a special purpose local option sales tax,” he explains. This funding has facilitated various projects, from a $1.2 million HVAC project at Dade Elementary School to a $3.5 million renovation at Dade Middle School. Looking ahead, the district plans to upgrade its lighting systems, starting with LED installations and eventually transitioning to sports lighting. Sports and the Arts When it comes to extracurricular activities, Dade County Schools offers an overabundance.