Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why now?

• Over the past year, the Board studied ways to strengthen early learning opportunities while listening to families, staff, childcare providers, and community members. Through that process, it became clear that improving early learning also created an opportunity to better organize district facilities, improve operational efficiency, and position the district for the future.

2. Why only one ballot question?

• The bond and the capital projects levy each fund different parts of the overall proposal. 

• Together, they provide the funding needed to support improvements to facilities, technology, curriculum, and other capital needs included in the district's long-term plan.

3. What does the capital projects levy have to do with staff and classrooms?

• The capital projects levy would provide ongoing funding for eligible capital needs such as technology, curriculum/materials, facilities, and other allowable capital expenditures. This is separate from the building bond that would fund the Sunnyside renovation.

4. Why is the district proposing a capital projects levy?

• As enrollment has declined, RWPS has seen a corresponding decline in revenue, all while state funding changes and other requirements have created additional financial pressures.  A capital projects levy would provide a stable, dedicated source of funding for allowable expenses such as technology, curriculum and certain facility needs - helping preserve general fund dollars that support current educational programs and services.

5. What’s this going to cost me?

• The proposal is estimated to have a tax impact of approximately $9 per month on the average value home in the district. Visit the online tax calculator for your individual tax impact.

6. If this passes, when would all of this happen?

• The specific transition and implementation details would be developed following the November 3rd election. Proposed changes are anticipated for the start of the ’28-’29 school year. More information will be shared well in advance of any changes.

7. What improvements are proposed at Sunnyside Elementary?

The proposed improvements to modernize and renovate Sunnyside Elementary include:

• Creating dedicated pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms and improving spaces for special education, Head Start, and student support services. 

• Replacing and upgrading aging building systems, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical, fire alarm, windows, restrooms, and accessibility features. 

• Updating furniture, fixtures, finishes, and equipment throughout the building. 

• Constructing a new early childhood playground. 

8. Will staff have input into the design of renovated spaces at Sunnyside?

• Yes. If voters approve the referendum, a detailed design phase will follow. Staff who work in and support the affected programs would have opportunities to provide input as those spaces are developed.

9. What happens to the Colvill building and the staff/programs currently located there?

• Under the proposal, Early Childhood programming would transition from Colvill to Sunnyside. Colvill would remain district-owned while future options for the property are explored. The specific use will be determined through a thoughtful planning process.

11. What are Learning Communities?

• A learning community brings together students at similar stages of learning and development so schools can provide age-appropriate instruction, support, and opportunities for success.

13. Why not leave the grade configuration as it is and simply renovate existing buildings?

• The Board considered the proposal within a larger conversation about Early Childhood access, available space across the district, facility needs, and operational efficiency. The proposed configuration is intended to address those issues together rather than treating each building or program independently.