Board approves Poinciana Area High School plan, members cite urgent need for relief in fast‑growing area

Polk County School Board members voted unanimously Jan. 28 to approve recommended options for the Poinciana Area High School, a move board members said responds to rapid population growth in northeast Polk County.

The motion to approve was made by Board Member Sarah Wyatt and seconded by Board Member Marcia Fields. During discussion board members emphasized two priorities: speed of delivery to meet the area’s growing student population and prudent cost control. Several members noted the P3 (public‑private partnership) approach under consideration and cited the reputation of the selected contractor (identified in the meeting as RADA Construction) as a factor in their support.

Board members said the Poinciana area requires additional high‑school capacity and that prior delays had left the work overdue. At least one member framed the choice as a balance between fiscal stewardship and accelerating construction so students are not further impacted by temporary portables. The board asked staff to finalize contract details and to return regular budget and schedule updates.

The motion passed by voice vote; the meeting record shows no recorded no votes. Following the vote, board members moved on to other agenda items.