School expansion projects wade into design principles

School bonds for the academic and athletic expansion projects at Whitefish High School were opened for sale to the public on Tuesday, Feb. 4 and sold out that morning.  

At the school board business meeting Feb. 11, the board approved a resolution that will obligate the school board to make the appropriate levies to pay off the debt, which will be considered each year with the approval of the annual budget. 

“As of right now, we’re under what was the projected cost for voters,” said Bridget Ekstrom, DA Davidson financial advisor.  

“We are also able to lock in favorable market rates at 4%,” Ekstrom said. All total, another million in premium. Which is favorable news for the taxpayers.”

Two separate committees have been formed for the academic and athletic projects. 

"There is still a lot of discovery process and work that needs to happen design wise,” said Shane Jacobs, architect for the bond projects. 

“Allowing the athletics project to take its own course as a smaller project will let it move at a faster pace.” 

Jacobs said they have discussed culture and identity within the design’s guiding principles.  

“The lingering question that is a great analogy for Whitefish as a community... is how do we continue to be who we are culturally, yet plan for expansion? How do we maintain who we are?” 

THE BOARD called for an election on May 6 to elect two trustees for a three-year term. Levies may also be requested during this election if necessary. The election may be cancelled if there are only two candidates for the two positions, and assuming no levies are needed.  

For the first time, this year’s election will be counted by the Flathead County Election Department.  

“For several decades, Flathead County school districts were solely responsible for conducting their own elections,” said District Clerk Lucie Shea. “This is uncommon. However, recent changes in leadership at the elections department have led to a change, and they have offered to conduct elections for schools who chose to utilize their services. 

Shea said it will be more efficient for the county to serve all school district elections. 

The board also discussed the potential impact of federal changes to education, including the possible elimination of the Department of Education and subsequent funding.  

“I just don’t think we know,” said Superintendent Dave Means.  

Shea clarified that any changes that may occur budget wise would not go into effect until next school year.  

Trustee Jerrie Boksich said the potential changes on the federal level would “move the burden from the Department of Education to the states, who are going to have to gear up.” 

The conversation was “all hypothetical,” Shea said. “But it could be good for us.”