SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — After nearly 60 years of wear and tear, East Valley Middle and High School buildings have deteriorated to the point where district officials say they need complete reconstruction rather than continued repairs.
The East Valley School District is asking voters to approve a $220 million bond measure that would rebuild both schools and fund necessary repairs across all district buildings. If approved, it would mark the first bond passed by voters in 30 years.
The aging facilities face constant maintenance issues that have moved beyond simple fixes. Neale Rasmussen, the district’s assistant superintendent, said the problems have become a weekly occurrence.
“We have a roofing company that’s here almost weekly patching,” Rasmussen said. “Last week we had, during a basketball game when the kids were on the far end of the court. We had someone on the court mopping up the water that’s leaking from the roof.”
District officials emphasize that the buildings have reached a critical point where ongoing repairs are no longer sufficient.
“Our custodial and maintenance staff have done an excellent job of trying to continue to maintain our buildings. But you can only put on so many Band-Aids,” said Ryan Arnold, East Valley High School principal.
The bond would fund more than cosmetic improvements. Arnold highlighted the need for updated science facilities to prepare students for modern career paths.
“Our science classes are very outdated. When it comes to going into the medical field, when it comes to going into, you know, STEM workforces and, and career paths is we have to have the opportunities for our kids to have experiences in those spaces,” Arnold said. “And unfortunately, what we have right now just doesn’t cut it.”
The financial impact on property owners would be $1.96 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For a homeowner with a $400,000 property, this translates to an additional $65 per month. However, district officials note that because the bond would replace an expiring levy, the actual increase would be $41 per month for that same homeowner.
Community reaction remains divided on the proposal. Some parents view the investment as necessary for the district’s future.
“I know it’s the right decision for our community. Our schools are in such disrepair,” said Kelly Jo Dunham, a mother of three students in the district.
Other residents express concern about the financial burden the bond would place on taxpayers.
The bond measure requires 60% voter approval to pass. Voters have until February 10 to return their ballots, with the outcome determining whether the district can move forward with its comprehensive rebuilding plans.
You can find more information about the bond measure HERE.
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