MD Roper planner Mark presented the district’s long‑range facility planning summary and enrollment projections through 2040, telling the Waunakee board the district is likely to add roughly 262 housing units per year across the planning period and could see a net increase of about 680 students (K–12) by 2040 — roughly 45 students per year on average.

Mark said demographic shifts (a larger reproductive‑age cohort) and continued housing growth—particularly multiple‑family units and phases in Bishop's Bay and Heritage Hills—are primary drivers. He said brand‑new housing in Waunakee generates about 0.68 students per home on average, with a higher student yield from homes built in the 2010s.

The analysis projects that, without changes, Arboretum and Prairie elementary schools could approach capacity by the late 2030s and the intermediate school would likely need added capacity in the same period. Mark recommended board consideration of site acquisition well ahead of projected need and suggested options including attendance‑area adjustments, interim transfers, an additional elementary development or an addition at the intermediate school. He noted the district’s Woodland site (about 20 acres) could be held in reserve.

Board members asked timing questions; Mark advised that major public processes and referendum planning would likely be appropriate a few years before capacity pressures mount but that the district should monitor trends and pursue opportunistic site acquisitions earlier.

The board did not take action but directed administration to continue monitoring enrollment and consider site‑acquisition opportunities that arise in the near term.