Kenowa Hills Bond Project Update: Wrapping Up 2020 and Kicking Off 2024

In 2020, the Kenowa Hills community passed a bond to support district-wide enhancements. As projects from that bond continue, construction under the 2024 bond has begun. As this exciting transition unfolds, we want to provide an update on completed work, current projects nearing completion, and what’s just getting started as we head into a busy summer construction season.

2020 Bond Projects

The 2020 bond focused on improvements to the Early Childhood Center, Middle School, and High School. Phase 1 at the Early Childhood Center has been completed. Phase 2 is currently in the design stage. Construction at the Middle School is nearing completion. Construction at the High School is slated to begin in a couple of years. Upgrades include:

• Overall building improvements and remodels

• Traffic and parking reconfigurations

• Enhancements to performing arts, STEM, and physical education areas

• Various mechanical system upgrades

As you scroll through the above photos, pay attention to the spaces that have been fully completed, and the spaced that are apart of the final phase!

At the Middle School, we’re completing the final phases of construction projects. Aesthetic upgrades have given the building a fresh, contemporary look—replacing the original design from when the school was first built.

Key highlights of the Middle School transformation include:

• A new addition, including two large classrooms for band and orchestra, and new hallway lockers.

• Reconfigured and expanded classrooms, now averaging 900–1,000 sq. ft., providing a more modern and functional learning space.

• A remodeled and enlarged cafeteria and kitchen. The old band room was converted into the new kitchen, and a new restroom was added. Structural upgrades, including new columns and beams, support the expanded space.

• Complete replacement of the mechanical systems, including a new sprinkler system and brand-new domestic water lines.

• Six remodeled science classrooms, which were completed in phases due to the requirement that four science rooms remain operational at all times.

• The Pathways High School wing also received updates.

• The former autobody shop is being transformed into a new STEM academy for both the middle and high school.

  
  

The final phase of the Middle School projects are underway. New carpeting, ceiling tiles, and flooring will soon be installed.

Pictured above: The new performing arts addition

Pictured above: the newly expanded and renovated kitchen and cafeteria

2024 Bond Projects

The recently approved 2024 bond brings a focus on outdoor activities and learning spaces, as well as athletic facilities. Upcoming improvements include:

• Construction of two new softball fields and two new baseball fields, replacing the previous soccer field. Demolition of the old field is underway, and the land is currently being leveled to prepare for the new ball fields.

• The current football field will remain in place but receive upgrades, including a new press box and locker rooms for the teams that use the Athletic Complex.

• A brand-new Multipurpose Facility is planned for the area currently occupied by the varsity baseball field, near the football field. This facility will accommodate soccer and lacrosse games, feature a “ghost” football field for training, and serve as a space for PE classes and marching band practice.

Pictured above: the space of the previous soccer field, now leveled out.

Pictured above: home of the new softball/baseball fields (left). Current baseball field and home of the future multipurpose field (right).

We’re incredibly grateful to the Kenowa Hills community for their continued support in making these transformative projects possible. The enhancements from both the 2020 and 2024 bonds are not just investments in our buildings—they’re investments in our students, staff, and the future of our district. As construction progresses throughout the summer, we’ll continue to provide updates and look forward to celebrating the completion of these exciting improvements together. Stay tuned, and thank you for being a vital part of our journey!