SPRING VALLEY, WI — Exciting momentum is building in the School District of Spring Valley as the district moves forward on the $13.15 million facilities referendums approved by voters in April 2025, are on track. With a detailed schedule in place and design conversations underway, the vision for improved learning environments, upgraded infrastructure, and enhanced safety is beginning to take shape.
Design and Planning Phase Advancing – The design and planning phase is in full swing, with biweekly meetings bringing together school administrators, architects, engineers, school board representatives, and stakeholder groups. Recent design sessions have focused on civil and site layouts, mechanical and electrical systems, and initial planning for classrooms and common areas.
“The feedback from our staff and community was vital in getting us to this point,” said John Groh, Superintendent of Spring Valley Schools. “We’re making thoughtful decisions to ensure these improvements meet long-term needs while staying fiscally responsible.”
Key Projects in Motion – Several significant developments are already underway:
- Safety and Accessibility Upgrades: Plans include adding restrooms in Special Education areas, improving building accessibility, and upgrading building security and entry controls.
- Mechanical and Electrical Systems: A new chilled water system is planned for the middle/high school. Fire protection and voice evacuation systems will be expanded to cover the full campus.
- Commons Area Renovations: Renderings for the remodeled Commons Area are being developed, aiming for better flow, modern finishes, and flexible student gathering spaces.
- Transportation Building Site: Multiple proposed site locations for the new transportation facility were presented to the School Board on May 21, 2025. A decision on a site will be made in the upcoming months. This facility will help improve operational efficiency by improving the ability to store, service, and wash buses/vans on-site.
- Athletics and Pool: Mechanical and electrical assessments are being planned for the pool. Simultaneously, plans are moving forward for a competition track and related athletic field improvements.
Timeline for Completion – A preliminary two-year schedule is guiding the process, with milestones planned across multiple phases:
- Spring–Summer 2025: The design phase continues, informed by staff, user groups, and district leadership.
- Late 2025: The bidding phase begins, with projects opened to pre-qualified contractors through competitive bidding.
- 2026: Construction begins in phases, with heavy activity concentrated in the spring/summer for outdoor projects and the summer months to minimize classroom disruption inside the school.
- 2026: Final commissioning and project closeout, including inspections and punch list items, is expected to wrap up the initiative.
Looking Ahead – The next design team meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, 2025, where further refinements will be made, and input from various user groups — including athletics, transportation, special education, and commons areas — will help shape future layouts. This is the third of 12 scheduled meetings that will help continually refine plans for the bidding process later this fall.
District officials emphasize the importance of transparency and community connections throughout the process. “These projects represent a shared investment in our future,” said Superintendent Groh. “We’re committed to regular updates and meaningful collaboration every step of the way.”
For continued updates and full project details, community members will soon be able to access a webpage on the district’s website. The district is grateful for the trust and support demonstrated by the community through the referendum vote in April. There is a strong commitment to continually earning that trust throughout each step of this process. Please reach out to Superintendent John Groh if you have any questions or suggestions.
