A long term vision for the future was the general consensus of a Washington Community School Board work session attended by about 50 people last night at Griffith Elementary. Discussed was a possible building project to alleviate classroom overcrowding at the elementary and Jr. High levels.
School Superintendent Dr. Dan Roach began the session with a brief history leading up to today. Almost two years ago a study and analysis was done of the school system including public surveys.
The concept being considered is to build one middle school. Two scenarios were talked about including a Grade 5 through 7 middle school and leaving 8th graders at their current location and creating an 8th Grade Academy. That had an estimated cost of $29 million. The 2nd idea is a Grade 5 through 8 Middle School. That price tag was $35 million. Again no decision has been made and there is no timetable in place. However, the school board has said they are actively seeking property to buy for a possible future project.
Roach says a goal throughout the process is to be very transparent. You can keep up to date with discussions with posts on the school’s website and social media page.
Roach answered questions on financing saying it would be a debt service project and would likely require a referendum on a ballot. Voters would then vote for or against a project if and when the school board makes a decision
Another work session on the subject is slated for April 22nd.