Board discusses re-running bond

CHENEY – The School Board deliberated last Wednesday on facilities planning in anticipation of reintroducing a bond initiative next year to finance the construction of two new elementary schools.

In the Feb. 13 special election, the district’s initial bond proposal fell short of the required 60% majority vote for approval.

Superintendent Ben Ferney set the stage for the discussion, outlining the district’s commitment to strategic planning and introducing Phil Crocker, who led the planning process for the original bond initiative from December 2022 to May 2023.

Crocker presented the board with his latest recommendations to address the district’s burgeoning facility needs.

While the initial proposal included plans for the immediate construction of an elementary school in Airway Heights, a new phased approach outlined by Crocker emphasized a proactive strategy contingent on enrollment.

“When the enrollment of that first elementary school reaches 95%, we’ll have the capacity to build a new elementary school,” Crocker said.

Key elements of the planning process involved a review and analysis of data to identify optimal locations and timelines for facility expansion.

While the focus initially gravitated toward the need for a new high school, it became apparent that elementary capacity emerged as the primary concern.

Reflecting on the district’s trajectory, Crocker emphasized the importance of re—engaging with the community and stressed the need for strategic adjustments rather than wholesale revisions.

“The execution of the levy and bond campaign was extensive and thorough,” he said. “It’s more about what you can do differently, not about what you need to do more of.”

The prevalence of portable classrooms within the district served as a reminder of the need for additional elementary infrastructure.

“Keeping your kids in your community is a big deal,” Crocker said. “If you don’t build a new elementary school, you’ll have to spend money on portables.”