Mountain Home district submits construction grant and previews high-school redesign with larger windows and front-office addition

Superintendent Gilbert told the Board of Trustees the district submitted a construction grant and is preparing to put a bid package out for a high-school redesign.

"We go through that process. So hopefully we're still on track for kind of mid June going out to bid on that project," Gilbert said, describing plans to replace old windows with larger ones, add front-office space, and install double-access doors for security. He showed trustees a concept floor plan and said the window-phase work will be done in pods and will require juggling classroom space as construction progresses.

Trustees asked about placement for a commemorative bell and accessibility to the new front area; staff said the bell will be placed near the gym entrance with plaques and that at least part of the office addition should be done by the fall, with window replacement continuing into summer 2027. Gilbert also reported that the state budget was approved with flat funding for schools and a small new line item for high-need special education.

Why it matters: The redesign aims to modernize the high school's appearance, improve functionality and security, and provide more natural light; the phased construction will require temporary classroom adjustments.

What’s next: Staff expect a city council review (planning/zone approval already granted) and to release bid documents in the coming weeks; no final contract award or start date was recorded during the meeting.