District to pursue external reuse evaluation for Oldstead Elementary after internal review

Washoe County School District staff told trustees on June 23 that an internal reuse analysis of the recently closed Oldstead Elementary School did not identify a funded district program that would justify continued ownership and operation as a school facility. Because the campus is near an interstate interchange and would require substantial maintenance, staff recommended moving to an external reuse evaluation under the district’s board policy and approved framework.

Chief Operating Officer Adam Cersi said the repurposing framework calls first for internal reuse analysis; after that step was completed with steering‑panel input the district recommended an external pathway. "Rather than pursuing an internal reuse pathway, our recommendation is to proceed with an external reuse evaluation," Cersi told the board.

The external evaluation will include community engagement, appraisals, a non‑binding call for proposals from prospective partners, and convening a steering panel to assess submissions. Deputy Chief General Counsel Kevin Pick outlined the external pathway and said staff would bring a summary recommendation back to the board for any action. The board voted unanimously to authorize the external reuse evaluation.

Public commenters, including municipal parks staff and community organizations, urged collaborative reuse and emphasized the need for stable partners. Staff emphasized the district will maintain and secure the property during the multi‑month process and that any recommended sale or lease would follow statutory procedures.