Reardan-Edwall School District plans for growth

REARDAN- The school district has undertaken a comprehensive facilities study to develop a long-range plan to deal with its expected increase in enrollment and to replace aging buildings.

If projections are accurate, enrollment will increase from 736 to 1,065 between 2023-2028.

"We are out of classroom space," superintendent Eric Sobotta said. "That need is above and beyond the needs we ran on our capital levy this past November."

ALSC Architects are spearheading the study that will include input from a school district planning team, staff, students and members of the community. The results of the study will be incorporated into a 5–7-year plan that could eventually lead to the replacement of the high school building, constructed in 1979.

The study will be completed in 2024 and presented to the school board for approval.

"This is an important issue as our infrastructure is pastime to be replaced," Sobotta said. "Our high school and vocational buildings are all aging."

In 2022, the capital levy put forth to voters to update the school's facilities failed, largely in part to a lack of support from Spokane County voters.

"I want this to be a community driven process," Sobotta said. "I'd like community members to have an active role. We will be seeking input from Spokane county residents."

"The school is beginning to show its age," school board member Tessa Wicks added. "I think it is important that we have a plan in place. We are going to solicit as much community input and involvement that we can."