Supporting documents are available via the following link: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997
Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information: https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule
Supporting documents are available via the following link: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997
Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information: https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule
WALLA WALLA - The Walla Walla Public Schools Outdoor Athletic and Activity Facilities Committee received the prestigious 2024 Chamber of Commerce Duane Wollmuth Catalyst Award during the annual Business Awards Showcase and Community Excellence Awards ceremony on December 11, held at the downtown Baker Boyer Bank.
This recognition highlights the Committee’s dedication to enhancing the district’s outdoor athletic and activity facilities through their successful advocacy for the Outdoor Athletic and Activity Capital Levy. On February 13, 2024, 58 percent of Walla Walla voters demonstrated strong support by approving the measure, which will fund essential improvements across Walla Walla High School, Pioneer Middle School and Garrison Middle School.
The proposal was spearheaded by an independent Outdoor Athletic and Activity Facilities Committee, whose members include:
Committee Members
• Don Davis, Chair
• Andy Coleman, Vice-Chair
• Doug Hayes
• Scott Shields
• Julio Tapia
• Stephenie Bowen
• Lawson Knight
• Dewight Hall
• Denise Isenhower
• Kelly Belcher
• Robert King
• Mark Thompson
• Mike Monahan
• Phil Shivell
• Scott Krivoshein
• Stacy Bergevin
• Tim Wooster
• Jaime Tiscareno
• Colby Burke
Support/Advisory Members
• Dr. Wade Smith, Superintendent
• Heath Gardner, Consultant
• Chris Ferenz, Athletic Director
• Robert Foster, Facilities Director
• Michael Kay, Former Director/Advisor
• Dean Lodmell, Volunteer Consultant
• Kathy Mulkerin, School Board Representative
After months of research, surveys, and community outreach, the Committee’s efforts culminated in the levy’s approval, enabling over $15 million in facility upgrades. These improvements address critical safety, accessibility, and usability needs, bringing Walla Walla Public Schools’ outdoor facilities in line with modern standards.
Approved Improvements
The improvements prioritized by the Committee include:
• Replacement of Walla Walla High School’s 60-year-old tennis courts
• Installation of an all-weather track at Pioneer Middle School for both school and community use
• Repairs to Garrison Middle School’s 43-year-old Chubb Courts and resurfacing of the 20-year-old track
• Installation of artificial turf fields and low-spill/low-glare lighting at Walla Walla High School’s Blue Devil Stadium and Trident Field
• Addition of outdoor lighting at Murr Sports Park baseball and softball fields to reduce instructional disruption and increase family attendance
• ADA-accessible elevated bleachers at Blue Devil Stadium
• Improved restroom and changing room access
• Construction of a JROTC “Raider Obstacle Course”
Looking Ahead
Many of the improvements funded through this measure have been completed, with the remaining slated for completion by Summer 2025. These enhancements will provide safer, more equitable, and higher-quality facilities for students, staff, and the broader Walla Walla community. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering on these promises and ensuring the success of each project milestone. Walla Walla Public Schools thanks the community for their unwavering support in creating a brighter future for local students and families. Together, we are building a legacy of excellence in athletics and activities.
Photo: L-R: Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith, Committee members Andy Coleman and Don Davis and Baker Boyer Bank Vice President Rob Blethen.
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Supporting documents are available via the following link: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997
Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information: https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule