Issaquah School Board proposes new high school building with $146M budget

The Issaquah School District Board meeting on April 10, 2025, spotlighted plans for a new high school building aimed at addressing overcrowding in existing facilities. The proposed construction focuses on a west section of the site, which would accommodate approximately 656 students through 23 teaching stations.

Key financial details revealed that the district has about $146 million available for the project, sourced from previous voter-approved funds and potential interest earnings. This includes $90 million from 2016 and $44 million from a 2022 levy, with additional funds anticipated from school assistance construction sources. The board emphasized the importance of maximizing these resources while adhering to financial constraints.

Tom Mullins, a district representative, outlined the preliminary budget, estimating construction costs at $110 million, with additional allocations for soft costs and contingencies. The timeline for construction is projected to begin in March 2026, with completion expected by August 2027, allowing for a 2027-2028 school year opening.

Board members expressed strong support for the plan, highlighting its potential to alleviate overcrowding and provide flexibility for future educational needs. Director Mullings confirmed that necessary infrastructure improvements, such as road expansions and stormwater management, would be integrated into the project design.

The board's next steps include submitting a formal proposal to the city of Issaquah and initiating comprehensive project planning efforts. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the district can effectively respond to the growing student population while utilizing community-approved funding.