The ISD 622 school board approved $24.6 million in construction bonds Tuesday to fund expansion and renovation of Cowern Elementary School, utilizing surplus funds from a 2019 voter-approved bond measure.

The project will add classroom space and update infrastructure at the district's smallest elementary school, which currently operates as a three-section school with approximately 450 students. The expansion will create a four-section school with a 600-student capacity, according to Operations Director Sarah Gat.

"We've done really well on our construction projects and planning due to low bond sale interest rates, project cost savings over the last six years, periods of low construction inflation, and we've also really benefited from a really active and competitive construction market," Gat told the board.

The two-year construction project will begin next summer and continue through two school years. The addition will be built first to provide swing space, followed by renovation of existing areas including heating, cooling, electrical systems, and educational learning spaces.

During public comment, community members addressed federal diversity, equity and inclusion policies and technology use in schools. Justin Mida requested the board establish a study group to examine potential impacts of federal executive orders on district programs, while parent Miriam Jenich advocated for stricter cell phone policies and reduced screen time for elementary students. The board also heard reports from high school principals on attendance improvements and student engagement initiatives, and received updates on the district's projected $7-9 million budget shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year.