“Spaceship” remains intact in Decatur High plans

Four preliminary master-plan options for Decatur High School’s renovation and new construction were presented earlier this week, with all four keeping the distinctive “spaceship” front that dates to 1964. It’s anticipated that space will become a vestibule or open atrium. Plans call for eventually adding 124 instructional units (to the existing 53) so the school can serve 2,409 students. Current enrollment is 1,080. Projected costs range, depending on option, from $55.1 million to $61 million. Phase 1 construction — including a new kitchen, cafeteria and 24 classrooms — could start next summer, with the final phase scheduled for completion by 2018.