SPOKANE, Wash. — A $72 million bond proposal for Cheney Public Schools, aimed at addressing overcrowding and improving educational facilities, is currently passing with over 62% of the vote, more than a week after the election. The bond, which requires at least 60% approval to pass, is seen as a critical solution for the district’s growing student population. The official vote tally will be certified on November 26th, but community leaders are optimistic about the outcome.
The proposed bond would primarily fund the construction of a new elementary school in Airway Heights, where schools like Sunset Elementary are operating at 121% capacity. With student enrollment on the rise, the district has struggled to find space for both students and staff.
"Being able to staff our building for this many kids is a challenge," said Sunset Elementary Principal Sara McKennon. The district’s Superintendent, Ben Ferney, echoed these concerns, noting that the bond’s approval would allow for long-term solutions, such as reducing overcrowding and expanding educational opportunities.
While the construction of a new school is the most immediate priority, the bond will also fund other essential projects, including upgrades to existing school buildings and land acquisition for future development. Some of the upgrades include new bus loops for both Windsor and Salnave elementary schools. As well as, new fencing and stadium bleachers for Cheney High School.
These steps are part of Cheney Public Schools’ broader plan to accommodate the district’s growth as the surrounding community continues to expand.
The bond’s passage would also mean an additional cost to local taxpayers. Homeowners in the district can expect to pay 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. This cost would contribute to the development of the new school, along with improvements to existing infrastructure and facilities across the district.
Superintendent Ben Ferney emphasized the importance of community engagement throughout the planning process. "It was an opportunity for us to learn and really go to our community and ask, 'What is it that we need to do and what can we do differently?'" he said. This approach has garnered support from local residents, many of whom are eager to see improvements in the district's schools.
For now, all eyes are on the final certification of votes on November 26th. If the bond passes, Cheney Public Schools will be able to make significant strides in easing overcrowding, providing more space for students and staff, and preparing the district for future growth.
As the district waits for the final word, McKennon, who has witnessed the strain on both students and staff, said, “It’s a lot for students to be so packed in a school.” With the bond potentially unlocking much-needed resources, Cheney Public Schools may soon have the capacity to provide a better educational environment for all.