Trustees debate future of robotics facility amid space concerns

During a recent school board meeting, trustees discussed the proposed addition of three classrooms at Purple Sage Elementary School, estimated to cost approximately $4.6 million. The discussion was prompted by questions raised in a previous meeting, with some trustees expressing skepticism about the necessity and financial prudence of the project. Trustee Ware noted that the addition was not part of the long-range master plan and questioned its origin, suggesting that while the community may have long desired additional classroom space, the expenditure might not be justified.

Superintendent Zach Oldham provided context, highlighting significant enrollment growth at Purple Sage, which has increased from 320 students in 2014 to nearly 500 currently. He mentioned that the school is utilizing two portable classrooms and that the addition could help alleviate space issues. However, trustees raised concerns about the current utilization rate of the campus, which stands at 74%, and whether the addition was truly necessary given the existing capacity and programming.

Trustees discussed the potential for re-evaluating school boundaries to address overcrowding before committing to new construction. Some members suggested that the project could be categorized as a lower priority (P2 or P3) for future bond cycles, allowing for further assessment of the need for additional classrooms.

The meeting also addressed the need for a dedicated robotics facility at Westwood High School. Trustees acknowledged the school's competitive robotics program, which has grown significantly, but expressed uncertainty about the feasibility of creating such a space on the existing campus. Discussions included the possibility of acquiring a new building to accommodate the program, with an estimated cost of around $6.6 million. The board emphasized the importance of providing adequate facilities to enhance the robotics program, which is seen as vital for student engagement and retention in STEM fields.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of managing school capacity and the need for strategic planning to address both immediate and long-term educational needs within the district.