Pending school board approval, voters will be asked to consider the middle school project on the April special election ballot.
Build a New Meridian Middle School (5-8)
The task force unanimously recommended building a new Meridian Middle School to provide a modern, safe, and accessible learning environment. The current school, built in 1938, has been well maintained, but signs of wear are evident throughout, and maintenance costs continue to grow.
The new school would be designed to meet current safety codes, including seismic requirements, ensuring a secure space for all students and staff. With energy-efficient features, the new school would offer comfortable classrooms year-round, enhancing student focus and learning. The design would include accessible entries and restrooms, making the school inclusive for students and visitors with limited mobility.
The new campus would feature state-of-the-art facilities for 21st Century Learning, including collaboration spaces and dedicated offices for specialists like nurses, counselors, psychologists, and therapists. These improvements would support a well-rounded educational experience, fostering both academic and personal growth.
Building the new middle school on the same property ensures continuity while providing a fresh, updated environment that meets the needs of our growing community.
The video below explains more reasons why a new Meridian Middle School is recommended.
Bond FAQ
Task Force Board Presentation (Dec. 13, 2023)
Executive Summary: Long-Range Capital Facilities Planning
Study and Survey by King Architecture
Long Range Educational and Facilities Plan by King Architecture
Supplemental Documentation for Study and Survey
Community Survey Results (Oct. 2023)
Community Survey Results (Dec. 2024)
Communications
Nov. 5, 2024: Bond Election Update
Nov. 15, 2024: Seeking Feedback by Dec. 2: Bond Next Steps
Nov. 26, 2024: Deadline Extended: Bond Next Steps Survey
Tax Exemptions
Some senior citizens and people with disabilities may be eligible for property tax exemptions, visit: whatcomcounty.us/177/Assessor or call 360-778-5050.
Why rebuild Meridian Middle School as a 5-8 school?
Our community is growing, and Meridian Middle School, designed for 380 students, is projected to have 500 students by 2030. This growth is district-wide. Irene Reither Elementary School (IRE) and the Ten Mile building, with capacities of 506 and 220 respectively, had 750 students in 2024. By 2028, IRE could have over 1,000 students.
A study recommended expanding the Ten Mile building or building a new elementary school, but costs exceed our bond capacity. The task force suggests a new elementary school for long-term planning (10+ years).
Middle schools, ideal for ages 10-15, can help students transition smoothly into adolescence. Introducing 5th graders to middle school earlier can foster social and emotional skills and balance K-12 experiences. This change would also alleviate elementary school overcrowding by moving about 160 students to the middle school.
If the bond is approved, a design committee with staff, families, students, and community members will be formed.
What’s the cost?
The total bond cost of the projects is $70.9 million. If approved by voters, the tax rate would increase by $1.35 per $1,000 of assessed value. Example of estimated costs for different home values seen below.
Estimated Cost of New Construction for Meridian Middle School
All cost estimates are based on square footage requirements.
| Estimated Cost | |
|---|---|
| Site Development for new MMS | $2,580,000 |
| New MMS Building (Construction Costs) | $42,400,000 |
| Demo Existing MMS Buildings (excluding west gym) | $950,000 |
| New Grass Playfields at MMS | $1,600,000 |
| Inflation Escalation to 2027 | $10,250,000 |
| Contingency & General Conditions | $9,200,000 |
| Taxes & Non-fixed Furnishings | $19,940,000 |
| Total Estimated Construction Cost | $86,920,000 |
| OSPI School Construction Assistance Program (SCAP) | -$16,020,000 |
| Total Bond Cost for MMS Replacement Building | $70,900,000 |