Summer Means Progress: Behind the Scenes with Citrus County Schools Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance Teams

While students and teachers enjoy a well-deserved summer break, another group of dedicated professionals is hard at work across Citrus County Schools. Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for our Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance Departments, led by Director Eric Stokes and his outstanding team.

Mr. Stokes brings more than 30 years of experience in the construction and facilities industry to Citrus County Schools. Over the course of his career, he has held numerous construction-related licenses and has spent roughly half of his professional life working in the private sector and the other half serving our school district. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence have helped ensure that our students and staff have safe, comfortable, and efficient learning environments.

The summer of 2026 has proven to be another productive season as Mr. Stokes, his teams, and the outside contractors they oversee continue to complete critical facility improvements throughout the district.

Among the major projects currently underway are re-roofing efforts at both Homosassa Elementary School and the Withlacoochee Technical College (WTC) campus. Roof replacement projects are essential investments that protect our facilities, preserve taxpayer resources, and ensure that classrooms remain safe and operational for years to come. Florida’s weather can be particularly demanding on school facilities, making these proactive improvements especially important.

Another significant project this summer is the installation of a new fire alarm system at Citrus Springs Elementary School. Safety remains our highest priority, and upgrading critical life-safety systems helps ensure that students, staff, and visitors are protected with modern, reliable technology.

One of the largest projects underway is a major HVAC upgrade at Crystal River Middle School. This project highlights the incredible work of our maintenance department, which has consistently maximized the lifespan of existing equipment. The HVAC units being replaced have served the school for more than 25 years, enduring multiple hurricanes and operating well beyond their anticipated life cycle. Through diligent maintenance, careful repairs, and responsible stewardship of district resources, our team was able to extend the usefulness of this equipment far beyond industry expectations. Simply put, we got our money’s worth. The new system will improve energy efficiency, reliability, and comfort for students and staff while reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Security enhancements also remain a top priority for Citrus County Schools. Each year, district leaders work closely with local law enforcement agencies to identify opportunities to strengthen campus security. This summer’s security project focuses on front office enhancements at Lecanto Primary School. These improvements are designed to provide additional layers of protection while maintaining a welcoming environment for students, families, and visitors.

This project is especially noteworthy because it was made possible largely through grant funding secured with the assistance of the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, former CCSB Police Chief Captain Montgomery, and our law enforcement partners. Their collaboration demonstrates the strong relationships that exist between Citrus County Schools and local public safety agencies. Together, we continue to seek innovative ways to improve school safety while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

Another exciting project is taking place at the Crystal River High School Veterinary Academy. This enhancement project is being funded through Career and Technical Education (CTE) grant resources and will significantly expand and improve the program’s capabilities. Citrus County Schools has long recognized the importance of providing students with real-world career pathways, and the Veterinary Academy continues to be a shining example of that commitment. The improvements will provide students with enhanced learning opportunities, expanded hands-on experiences, and greater preparation for future careers in veterinary medicine, animal science, and related fields.

Beyond these major construction projects, numerous smaller improvements are being completed throughout the district by our maintenance teams. While these projects may not always make headlines, they are essential to the daily operation and long-term success of our schools. From classroom repairs and painting to plumbing, electrical work, grounds maintenance, and facility upgrades, these teams address countless needs that help our schools function effectively.

Equally deserving of recognition are our custodial teams. Throughout the summer months, custodians work tirelessly to maintain construction areas while simultaneously preparing schools for the upcoming academic year. Floors are stripped, cleaned, and refinished. Classrooms are deep cleaned and refreshed. Buildings are inspected and prepared. Grounds are maintained and enhanced. Their work often occurs behind the scenes and outside normal school hours, yet it plays a vital role in creating welcoming learning environments for students and staff.

These dedicated employees are truly the quiet heroes of our school district. They work long hours under demanding schedules and often with tight deadlines to ensure every school is ready when students return in August. Their commitment to excellence helps provide safe, comfortable, and adequate learning environments where students can thrive.

As we look forward to the start of another school year, it is important to recognize and thank the many individuals who make these improvements possible. From Director Eric Stokes and his leadership team to our maintenance technicians, custodians, contractors, and community partners, their efforts are helping build a stronger future for Citrus County Schools.

While summer may appear quiet on our campuses, tremendous work is taking place behind the scenes. Thanks to these dedicated professionals, our schools will be ready to welcome students back to safe, modern, and well-maintained facilities for another successful year of learning.

No Comments »
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates