Hurricane School District plans preschool expansion and high school upgrades

The Washington County School District held a working session on January 29, 2025, focusing on various infrastructure and capacity issues within the district. The meeting addressed several key topics, including the need for additional preschool facilities, improvements to existing school infrastructure, and future planning for high school expansions.

The discussion began with the urgent need for a new preschool facility in Hurricane, as the current preschool is located at an intermediate school and is experiencing growth. Officials noted that while there was a preference from the state for preschool children to attend the same elementary school, the district has moved past that model and is focused on accommodating current needs.

Attention then shifted to Hurricane High School, where plans for a new turf field and running track were discussed. These improvements are slated for the next bond cycle, with a timeline set for June 2025. Additionally, Hurricane Middle School's deteriorating asphalt track was highlighted, with plans to replace it with a standard 10-foot-wide walking path to ensure safety and accessibility.

The meeting also covered maintenance needs, particularly the expansion of covered storage for equipment that has outgrown existing facilities. A previous investment in a sunshade for equipment was noted, but as the district has expanded, additional coverage is now necessary.

A significant point of discussion was the future of Mill Creek High School. Currently, the school has not expanded its capacity since it was built, and officials are considering the addition of classrooms to accommodate growing enrollment. However, this would require careful planning due to parking and space constraints. The board was urged to engage in discussions about the school's future, including whether to expand or build a new facility.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to addressing immediate infrastructure needs while planning for future growth. Key decisions regarding funding and project timelines will be crucial as the district moves forward with these initiatives.