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Board hears BVIU briefing on New Horizon facility; $20 million ceiling, tuition impact discussed
Summary
The Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit presented a proposed New Horizon facility project (a possible $20 million ceiling) that would require votes by participating districts; presenters said Blackhawk has 10 placed students and out-of-district tuition is roughly $45,000–$65,000 per pupil, creating possible cost implications for Blackhawk.
The Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit (BVIU) briefed the Blackhawk School Board on Nov. 18 about a proposed New Horizon facility project and a resolution that could authorize borrowing to fund construction and remediation.
BVIU representatives told the board the project has a ceiling figure discussed at about $20 million, that the BVIU board will first consider authority to borrow and then set a precise amount at a later meeting, and that the measure will need support from participating districts to proceed. The presenter said two‑thirds of participating districts and a specified number of board members must approve the resolution for the plan to move forward.
Board members asked whether state grants could offset the cost and how remaining funds would be handled if the project comes in under budget. The presenter said initial spending goes into a construction account and that districts have representation on the IU board; if a project comes in under budget some funds could be returned or allocated according to agreed formulas.
Board members pressed on how Blackhawk’s share might change. The presenter used sample tuition figures for out‑of‑district placements — "we pay $45,000 per student" — and noted that ranges commonly fall between $45,000 and $65,000. Blackhawk currently has 10 students placed in New Horizon programs; using the example model, a tuition increase could materially change Blackhawk’s annual cost exposure.
The presentation also described extensive mold damage discovered in the current New Horizon building — presenters said mold was found in roughly 64 rooms after odors were noticed — and discussed the tight timeline and logistical challenges of relocating or rebuilding, including the possibility of retrofitting other closed facilities. Board members expressed concern about the short timeline to be ready for a potential August opening and about oversight once construction funds are authorized.
BVIU told the board the IU will continue seeking grants and other funding, and that the project will proceed even if some districts vote no, but with different funding arrangements. The BVIU board is scheduled to take an initial vote on borrowing authority soon; Blackhawk directors were encouraged to attend the IU meeting or stream it via the IU's contact point.
Next steps: The IU will return with more precise cost estimates; participating districts will be asked to vote on a resolution authorizing their respective shares and the BVIU board will finalize borrowing amounts.
