School District U-46 officials are undertaking a major relocation project, dubbed “Moving the U.” This initiative includes several objectives aimed at improving educational facilities. One significant change is moving sixth grade to middle schools. However, this is only part of a larger plan.

Lela Majstorovic, the deputy superintendent of instruction, states that the project is part of the district’s broader Unite U-46 plan. The goal is to provide equitable access to high-quality classrooms across the district. This involves expanding preschool access, adjusting school boundaries, retiring old buildings, renovating schools, and building new campuses.

The project also involves relocating equipment and furniture within the district. A mover was seen stacking boxes at Hanover Countryside Elementary School in Streamwood as part of moving sixth-grade classes to middle schools.

Majstorovic noted that the effort will align facilities, programs, and resources with student needs. This ensures that students have access to modern learning environments near their homes.

Bruce Phelps, the project contractor, estimates the cost at over $426,000. The project requires 220 people, including 113 movers, to relocate items by June 18. These items will be moved to other schools, with older curriculum and equipment being retired.

The relocation involves 933 moves, processing 25,000 boxes and about 75,000 pieces of furniture or equipment across 47 school buildings in 11 communities. These areas include Elgin, South Elgin, Bartlett, Hanover Park, and Streamwood.

Phelps outlined the planning process, starting with a master move document detailing classroom, equipment, and curriculum relocations. Instructions on packing and labeling followed. The final stage involved bidding movers to execute the plan. Meetings with vendors ensured their employees were authorized to work on school property.

Though classes begin on August 27, the project aims to complete the move early. This allows adequate time for other preparations, including building maintenance, before the new school year starts.