Informational sessions for school bonds upcoming

Whitefish School District invites families and community members to attend informational sessions regarding two school bonds that will appear on the ballot in September. These sessions will provide an opportunity to learn about and ask questions concerning the WHS Academic Expansion and WHS Athletic Improvement proposals.

The next Informational Session occurs on Monday, Aug. 5, at 5:30 p.m. at Whitefish High School. The final two sessions will be held at the same time and location on Aug. 19 and Sept. 5.

The WHS Academic Expansion Bond will provide additional classrooms and labs to support increased enrollment and enhance learning spaces. It will also fund renovations to the learning kitchen for an expanded culinary arts program and create a flexible learning environment at Whitefish Independent High School.

The bond will provide more multipurpose space adjacent to the gym for flexible use and add classrooms and facilities for core academic classes and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) programs. It will grow popular Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism, Building Trades, Business, Agriculture, Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, and Horticulture. Finally, the WHS bond will improve safety and security by reducing student travel to auxiliary buildings and adding secure entrances.

The WHS Athletic Improvement Bond will enhance athletic facilities to support growing student participation and provide modern, district-owned venues. In response to community feedback, the proposal has been reduced in scope from the previous bond. Proposed improvements include a new 10-lane track and field, a district-owned football field, new grandstands with 1,500 seats and room for expansion, new admissions, concessions, and restroom facilities, additional parking, a new grass practice/multipurpose field, and improved accessibility.

The public is encouraged to attend one of the informational sessions so the district can help answer questions. Additional information is available on the district website at www.whitefishschools.org.