School Board approves purchase of modular building for Ironwood Elementary's expansion

The Marana Unified School District (MUSD) Board convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss a significant opportunity for Ironwood Elementary School. The board considered the purchase of a modular building from community partner ESP Design Build, which was originally constructed for the Department of Defense, at a discounted price.

The proposed building measures 9,360 square feet and includes two full restrooms. It can be adapted into eight classrooms, enhancing the educational environment for students. This purchase aims to replace five aging portable classrooms currently in poor condition on the Ironwood campus. The total cost for the project is $2,030,487, which translates to approximately $216.93 per square foot. Funding for this investment will come from bond funds allocated for district growth.

During the meeting, board members expressed their support for the purchase, highlighting the financial benefits of acquiring the building at nearly half the cost of current market rates, which are around $400 per square foot. The board unanimously approved the motion to proceed with the purchase, recognizing the importance of improving facilities for the students at Ironwood Elementary.

This decision marks a proactive step in addressing the needs of the growing student population and enhancing the overall learning environment within the district.