Prince George board approves feasibility study to guide reconfiguration, new high school planning

The Prince George County School board voted to approve a feasibility study by Moseley Architects to examine potential school reconfigurations and a new high school site.

Board members said the study — which the division will pay for using previously approved FY24 carryover funds — is intended to produce the analysis necessary for board-to-board discussions with the Prince George County Board of Supervisors on funding and timing. Dr. Lyle, the superintendent, presented the recommendation and the board approved the motion by roll call.

Board members emphasized that a concrete study is needed before the division and the county can negotiate funding. “We need to have a plan,” said Miss Chris, a school board member, urging a joint full-board meeting with supervisors so both bodies can “come to the table and talk.” Several members asked staff to request a timeline from Moseley; the vendor’s proposal included fees but did not include a delivery schedule in the packet.

Board members discussed broader county planning and financing, including past court guidance and the long life cycle of existing facilities. Miss Chris and others noted the division’s previous facility planning history — converting JEJ Moore to an elementary, moving the current high school to a middle school, and building a new high school on a site to be determined — and said the feasibility study should produce cost estimates and siting options to inform next steps.

The board approved the feasibility study motion by voice/roll call. Members said the study’s findings will be used to convene stakeholders, update timelines and pursue possible state or local funding when a concrete plan is ready.

The board also asked staff to pursue a projected timeline from Moseley and to organize a joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors once the study produces initial results.