Martin County Schools announces $62 million state grant to build new high school; district posts RFQ

Superintendent Dr. Michelle White announced that Martin County Schools received a $62,000,000 grant to build a new Martin County High School and has posted a request for qualifications for firms to participate in a design‑build procurement.

The superintendent described the award as the district’s largest grant to date and said the district will use a design‑build process; she directed interested parties to the district’s website where the RFQ and a running FAQ page are posted. "We are using the design build for this process," she said, encouraging interested firms to review the posted materials.

Why build a new high school rather than renovate an older campus was a recurring question from board members. District staff and trustees said the North Everett site is too small and has a history of septic/perk problems, and that a feasibility study and architect assessments recommended a new facility. The superintendent told the board the awarded funds were based on those needs and the district’s submitted application.

High school staff described academic and student supports that will continue during construction and transition planning. High school principal Mr. Mizzell said the school is investing in graduation supports now—part‑time senior counseling, increased test prep and credit recovery programs—to avoid disruptions in student progress during the building project.

The board did not make a final decision on the new campus location at the meeting. The superintendent said the district will maintain a FAQ on its website and republish answers through the district’s social channels as community questions arise.