KSD School Board Study Session: September 23, 2026

The Kennewick School District held a study session on September 23, 2026, focusing primarily on facilities planning and funding strategies. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a potential capital projects bond to be placed on the February 2027 ballot, aimed at securing approximately $61 million in state School Construction Assistance Program (SCAP) funds for upgrades to Highlands Middle School and Horse Heaven Hills Middle School. The district emphasized the urgency of submitting the application by mid-October to capture these funds, which are at risk of being lost due to enrollment declines affecting eligibility. The bond would also consolidate safety and security enhancements, allowing the district to expedite projects while maintaining the current tax rate around three dollars per $1,000 assessed value. The board discussed the financial implications, project prioritization, and communication strategies to ensure community support. Additionally, the session covered ongoing efforts to improve student engagement, teacher evaluations, recruitment for hard-to-fill positions, and the integration of data tools to support educational outcomes. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were mentioned, but the bond and funding discussions indicate forthcoming procurement activity related to capital improvements.