Superintendent, COO update board on construction progress and upcoming school openings

District leadership told the board Aug. 14 that a large number of facility projects are in progress across Santa Monica and Malibu campuses and that teams are racing to finish punch-list items before the first day of school on Aug. 21.

Superintendent provided an overview: Malibu High School students will begin the year in the new building earlier than anticipated, Grant and Rogers elementary sites will open new TK classrooms, Roosevelt Elementary has construction and a visible fence along Montana, John Adams will eventually receive a new science and project-based space, and Lincoln Middle School shows a major shell of work. Carrie Upton, Chief Operations Officer, said maintenance and construction teams cleared dozens of older work orders and addressed nearly 80 projects over the summer, ranging from small plumbing jobs to roofing and painting.

Upton described site-specific issues: electrical switchover challenges at John Adams tied to demolished science-building switchgear; a water-line strike at Lincoln that temporarily impacted toilets; and added temporary parking at Rogers while construction reduces available spaces. The district said it will return in late September or early October with a complete facilities report and noted that some projects (McKinley, Ocean Park) are on track for January openings.

Administration emphasized safety measures and communications: principals are receiving talking points and renderings, the facilities team will publish "Building Futures" notices for parents and staff, and the district is coordinating with contractors to finish playground and site work before schools open.

The board acknowledged residual inconveniences and thanked maintenance and operations teams for work done over a short summer window.