Board hears bond-project update: Independence HS on budget; multi-school upgrades under way

Patrick Martinez, the district’s executive director of facilities, briefed the board on bond-funded capital projects and timelines, saying Independence High School is under construction with steel in place and a $36,000,000 budget "currently on budget" and a projected spring 2027 completion. Martinez reported several projects are in design or preconstruction, and that a number of projects are pending Public School Facilities Authority (PSFA) approvals.

Martinez outlined scope and timing for key projects: Rio Rancho High School’s systems/security and fine-arts upgrades (HVAC, electrical, fire alarm, roof, drainage, perimeter security, and a new scene production space) are in early design; Cleveland High School’s classroom building is about 50% through construction documents with an $8,500,000 budget and a projected spring 2028 completion; Cuesta del Sol pre-K renovations included kitchen upgrades, a new cooler and refreshed portables, with new playgrounds scheduled for October. Martinez also reported a $7,000,000 athletic-field investment across Cleveland and Rio Rancho high schools that covers turf and track replacements and designs for varsity soccer turf.

Board members asked about schedule impacts on fall athletics; Martinez acknowledged an asphalt delay on Cleveland’s track but said staff had coordinated with athletic directors and coaches to avoid major disruptions. Superintendent Dr. Dodd thanked facilities staff for pre-K classroom improvements and called the work "huge improvements" for early learners. The board emphasized continued oversight of bond fund stewardship and asked staff to keep the board updated on cost and schedule risks.