During the February 23, 2015 Board Special Session, final rankings were determined with Leatham, Krohn, Van Ocker (LKV) Architects of Boise, with RGU Architecture and Planning of Lewiston, placing first. Architects West Inc., Coeur d’Alene, and Design West Architects, Clarkston, placed second and third respectively. The administration is currently working with legal counsel to develop contract language and enter into negotiations with the first place firm.

Why A New Architect
In order for the Board to meet the goal of establishing a Comprehensive Grades 9-12 High School, changes to the current campus would be necessary or a determination would need to be made to undertake a construction project on a new site. The Board of Directors determined the best course of action would be to contract with a new architectural firm in a desire to engage with the community in a new endeavor to take a close look at the feasibility of remodeling the current high school campus as well as constructing a new high school.

Local Funding Option
The Board of Directors took action in November 2014 to pursue proposing a resolution for a local option revenue enhancement measure for school construction to the Idaho School Boards Association (ISBA) Convention in Boise. Board Vice President Sheri Allen and Board Member Staci Baldwin traveled to the convention November 12-14, 2014, with the Superintendent and Katharine McPherson, Business Services Director, to advocate for passing the resolution from the floor. Though the ISBA delegate body did not pass Lewiston’s proposed resolution, the process sparked interest from some important allies who may be willing to assist should the Board choose to pursue the funding measure further. Local District 6 legislators also reviewed the proposal, and the effort to gain backing for the measure, and offered good advice that will also guide any future efforts.