Process

North Polk continues to experience steady, yet rapid increases in student enrollment, and with that comes growing pains. To help manage current growth and predict future trends, the district recently sought input from two external sources to aid in the long-term planning process.

Demographics & Enrollment Study

In early 2019, the district partnered with RSP & Associates on an updated enrollment analysis. The study considered factors such as past and present student enrollment, current and anticipated residential development in the area, and other data to calculate projected student enrollment over the next 10 years and predict where residential growth will occur. The district uses RSP's findings to better understand demographic trends, school utilization, and the timing of construction projects.

Evaluation Of Current Facilities

Following completion of the enrollment analysis, the district partnered with OPN Architects to evaluate current facilities. The evaluation consisted of building tours, interviews with teachers and administrators, and review of the recent enrollment study. As part of their evaluation, the architects identified the functional capacity of each building which can be used in conjunction with enrollment projections to identify when buildings may reach or exceed capacity. In conclusion, OPN’s findings recommended the district construct an elementary building to alleviate crowding issues at the elementary level, as well as an academic addition to the existing high school.

2017 Bond Referendum

Residents likely recall the passage of the 2017 bond referendum that allowed for $5.2 million to fund additions, renovations and security improvements to West Elementary and the middle school. Funds generated from the 2017 bond referendum were used on the greatest needs at that time, and the district borrowed the maximum amount allowable within our legal limits. Now, the North Polk Board of Education is asking voters to consider a potential bond referendum in the amount of $15 million that would fund the construction of an upper elementary building in Polk City and an academic addition to the existing high school.