EXCELSIOR SPRINGS – The Board of Education approved Phase One on construction and refurbishment projects after voters passed Proposition T on June 2. The board approved $6.3 million to begin the earthwork, site utilities, concrete, precast concrete, structural and miscellaneous steelwork on the new elementary school project. Approval also allowed for renovations to begin at the high school and Elkhorn Elementary School. Superintendent Dan Hoehn said permits and inspections are required before dirt can be turned at the new elementary school site, but improvements to the high school and Elkhorn can begin almost immediately to have them completed over the summer. The high school will experience refurbishment in the commons area, rafters, ceiling, flooring and windows, and new furniture will be added. Hoehn said he is hopeful this work can be completed before the start of school or Labor Day at the latest. Elkhorn’s improvements will start with the lunchroom, which will receive new…