Avondale Bond Updates

Since our last update in the spring, we’ve continued to make steady progress on a number of key projects outlined in our 2024 Bond plan.

Construction is well underway at the Avondale Learning Center (ALC), where recent work includes installing a new retention pond, paving the parking lot, and preparing for the upcoming building addition. These upgrades are part of a larger effort to support Phases 2 and 3 of the ALC renovations, which also include new structured cabling and a modern A/V system in the multipurpose room.

We’ve also addressed essential district-wide infrastructure by purchasing upgraded firewall and UC servers to support secure and reliable technology across all buildings. In transportation, we’ve completed the purchase of our new bus fleet, replacing aging vehicles and ensuring safe, dependable travel for students.

Significant progress has also been made at the Early Childhood Center. Our planning committee, architects, and staff have been working closely to finalize the building layout. We’re now moving into the next phase—reviewing and finalizing exterior design concepts that will bring this important space to life for our youngest learners.

Additional details and more information about specific projects and timelines can be found below. Quarterly updates—including tentative timelines and committee opportunities—will continue to be shared with staff and families and posted at avondaleschools.org/bond.

We’re excited to begin the planning process for upcoming playground renovations at each of our elementary schools. To help shape these new spaces, we will be forming a committee at each building to assist with concepts and design. If you’re interested in joining a playground committee, please sign up using the link below. We look forward to creating fun, safe, and inclusive play areas for all of our students!

Scheduled for Summer 2025 & 2026, these technology and infrastructure upgrades will support long-term sustainability and enhanced learning environments:

• Wired & Wireless Network Refresh

• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) Refresh

• Security upgrades: Cameras, access systems, and surveillance software

• Classroom enhancements: New A/V systems, projectors, teacher devices

• Building improvements: Upgraded clock systems, phone servers, and firewall/filtering

• Scoreboard & sound upgrades at AHS and AMS

• Mobile device management for tablets

• New School Busses - Series 1 & Series 2

• 11 - February 2025 Purchase (Complete)

• Additional purchases to come in September 2025 & 2026

• Avondale Field House Generators - Series 1

• September 2025 Completion

• Enhance AHS Performing Arts Center - Series 1

• September 2026 Completion

• Enhancing Woodland - Series 1

• New Chillers and Unit Ventilators at Woodland, New Ceilings, Classroom Casework, Flooring, Roofing Infrastructure

• September 2026 Completion

The district has also begun work on the expansion and upgrades to R. Grant Graham Elementary School. This important project will add much-needed classroom space to support current enrollment, welcome anticipated new students, and help maintain smaller class sizes. With every space in the building currently in use, this expansion is a critical step in meeting the needs of our growing school community.

A committee composed of R. Grant Graham staff and administrators has been working in close collaboration with architects and designers to finalize building plans and interior finishes. Below is the project timeline and floor plan.

Proposed Estimated Timelines & Concepts:

• Initial Design
  Start December 2024, End June 2025
• Out For Bid
  Start July 2025, End September 2025
• Construction
  Start June 2026, End August 2027

After several meetings, the Early Childhood Center (ECC) Committee has completed the building layout and is working to finalize the exterior design of the building. Final concepts will be presented at the next meeting, after which the group will shift focus to the functionality of interior spaces, playgrounds, and observation areas—all aimed at creating a nurturing and enriching environment for our youngest learners.

Proposed Estimated Timelines:

• Design
  Start July 2024, End October 2025
• Out For Bid
  Start November 2025, End December 2025
• Construction
  Start May 2026, End December 2027

The Avondale Learning Center, new home to Avondale's Adult Transition Program and Services (ATPS- previously SKILL) and the Avondale RoboJackets opened for the 2024-25 school year. The building has been fully renovated and continues to be updated with help from the recently approved 2024 bond proposal.

Phase 1 of the project has been completed. Phase 2 construction began in June 2025 with the installation of a required retention pond. They are now moving on to the renovation of a fully equipped PAES lab for ATPS students, along with an upgraded kitchen and cafeteria space. Phase 3, which focuses on the expansion of the Learning Center, is currently in the design phase. This phase will add a new Physical Education Center. Below is an estimated timeline for those projects.

Proposed Estimated Timelines

Phase 2

• Area 1: Start April/May 2025, End December 2025
• Area 2: Start June 2025, End August 2025

Phase 3

• Start April/May 2025, End December 2025

Phase 4

• June 2026 - August 2026

Interior & Exterior Design Concepts:

Avondale invites our staff, students, families, and community members to actively participate in the planning and implementation of the approved bond projects. With the first round of funding secured and projects entering the design and bidding stages, the district has formed planning committees to collaboratively define the specific details and requirements for each project.

If you are interested in providing input and feedback for the upcoming projects listed below, please click the link to sign up. Your involvement will play a key role in shaping the future of our schools!

Planning Committees Currently Forming

• Elementary Playground Renovations

Please Note: Interested members will be contacted on a first come, first served basis. Committees will consist of district administrators, staff, and up to 10 committee members, including students, families, and community members.

Below is a timeline showing how school districts receive bond funds, and the process for allocating those funds.

**Note: Each year, Avondale undergoes a full annual audit of bond funds, revenues, and expenditures to ensure funds are being appropriately allocated.

Below is a timeline illustrating the various projects that will be completed throughout all phases of the bond.

**Note: This is a general overview. Project specifics and timelines are subject to change and will be determined with the assistance of planning committees.

The Avondale community can expect the next quarterly bond update in the Fall of 2025. For more information, visit www.avondaleschools.org/bond.