OTHELLO, WA -- Thanks to the generous input of hundreds of community and staff members, a $61.4 million bond is on the consent agenda for official approval by the Othello School Board of Directors at tonight's November 13 meeting. If approved by the Board, Othello voters will see the proposed bond on their February 13, 2018 special election ballots.

The decision to pursue a bond and the resulting planning evolved as the District analyzed information gathered from Othello residents and staff at community forums, and through surveys and social media. Othello's schools are at 118% of capacity. This means Othello schools are built for 3702 students and the current enrollment is 4356 students. Public input favored doing something as soon as possible to help ease overcrowding.

The proposed school bond includes building a new elementary and a new middle school, expanding the existing high school to be "like new," and increasing student capacity from 1000 students to 1500 students. A total local tax increase of 96 cents per $1,000 of assessed value is estimated for the projects. (See attached poster.)

"I'm so appreciative of the time and effort our citizens have spent helping us imagine solutions to our facility challenges," said Dr. Chris Hurst, Superintendent. "This community clearly supports and values education -- and believes that strong schools are key to a vibrant community and healthy local economy."

More information on the proposed bond can be found on the district website at www.othelloschools.org/bond2018. Questions may be directed to the Othello Superintendent's Office at 509.488.2659 ext. 1001, or churst@othelloschools.org.

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