School Board Approves $24.6M Construction Bonds for Cowern Elementary
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.
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Votes (2)
Acknowledgement of Contributions
Dissent: None
Moved by Nardi [1:47:27] · Seconded by Anderson [1:47:27]
The Director of Finance presented a list of monetary and in-kind contributions received by the district. The donations for fiscal year 2024-2025 totaled $28,869 and included items like snow pants, funds for specific school programs (show choir), teacher dinners, and community support programs (Meals on Wheels). The resolution sought formal acceptance and permission for use as designated by the donors.
Allocation of Restrictive Construction Funds for the Expansion and Renovation of Cowern Elementary School
Dissent: None recorded at transcript end
Moved by Pending · Seconded by Pending
The Director of Operations presented a proposal to allocate residual restricted construction funds from a 2019 voter-approved bond, along with project savings and investment interest, for a significant addition and renovation at Cowern Elementary. The estimated project cost is up to $24.6 million from existing school building bonds and up to $16.5 million from future long-term facilities maintenance funds. Cowern was selected due to its capacity for expansion, its proximity to Richardson and Castle (balancing dual language program enrollment), and the efficiency gains from converting it to a four-section school with approximately 600 students. The renovation will also address critical infrastructure needs. The conceptual plan includes a two-story addition, parking expansion, playground relocation, and kitchen expansion, with construction slated from Summer 2025 to 2027.
Notable Quotes (3)
we have a fund balance to spend on our restricted construction funds so utilization of these restricted funds can really not be used to cover any general fund shortages or general fund expenses they have to be used on construction
the recommendation really is to look at cin and do an addition and renovation at cin for the following reason one it can handle in addition to its building the site allows that and with that also comes parking expansions as well... it is situation situated with boundaries adjacent to Richardson and to Castle we have booming and very successful dual language emerging programs at those sites and in addition at cin would also help and balance the enrollment between those three schools
efficiency so right now cin and Weaver as well are three section schools which means they're planned to carry three class uh rooms of each grade level um what we found in is really there are smallest schools in cin is our smallest school that by operating even a four section school with an approximate 600 student design capacity is more efficient in Staffing in resources and even operating the building and transportation overall
Ordinances & Resolutions (8)
The specific meeting being transcribed.
A federal executive order discussed by a public commenter regarding its potential impact on DEI programs and funding.
The district's overarching plan guiding the work presented by high school principals, focusing on academic achievement, equity, inclusion, and social-emotional learning.
Digital curriculum platform used by the 622 Online Program and Alternative High School.
A voter-approved bond plan from 2019 that funded various construction projects across the district, with remaining funds allocated to new projects.
An update that allocated fund savings to Webster and Harmony Renovations.
Permits school boards to receive and apply donations or gifts for the benefit of the district and pupils.
The budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, which is currently in the planning and assumption-setting phase.
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Other Topics from This Document
Impact of Federal Executive Order on DEI Programs and Funding
Cell Phone and Technology Use Policies in Schools
High School Strategic Plan Implementation and School Highlights
FY26 Budget and Staffing Process Update
Student Life and Achievements
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