Mineola school trustees got a 3-D look Monday at the planned Mineola Primary School to be built on NE Loop 564.

Architect Perry Thompson guided the board through the structure, pointing out the various classroom wings and features, interior and exterior.

Some of the discussion centered on the gym, which will also serve as the school’s required tornado shelter.

To a question on its capacity, which projections show could be reached in five years, Thompson agreed to look at other areas. The shelter size is determined based on five square feet per person and is designed for 800 persons.

He explained that budget constraints will determine how much the district can build.

Pricing for the new school is expected at the December board meeting.

The school, at almost $20 million, is the largest share of a bond issue approved by Mineola voters in May of almost $30 million.

Business manager William Bjork noted that the new construction account has expended $117,000 so far, and with rising interest rates it has earned $165,000.

He said the district has cash on hand of $9.3 million, in addition to the bond funds, which is up $658,000 from last year.

For the first time in a long time, the property tax receipts are being split between maintenance and operations and the interest and sinking funds which will repay the school bonds.

Bjork also reported on the annual state financial accountability report, with this being the 20th straight year for MISD to score a perfect 100.