Fargo School Board reviews latest long-range facility plan

(Fargo, ND) – Fargo School Board members got a look at the latest long-range facility plan Thursday in a work session in the district’s board room.

“Fargo’s growth, influenced by post-World War II development and infrastructure projects, has shifted its population towards the southern regions, propelled by significant developments like the West Acres Shopping Center,” an executive summary of the plan said. “Despite this growth, Fargo’s public school system faces challenges due to aging facilities, hindering the implementation of modern educational methods and jeopardizing student safety. Recognizing the critical importance of well-maintained facilities, comprehensive long-term planning is essential to address deficiencies and ensure optimal learning environments for all students.”

The district, through its plan, has a goal of increasing overall utilization by approximately 85 percent; provide a more balanced diversity across the portfolio; provide students with equitable access to staff and resources, along with space, needed daily, among others.

The first phase, set for the first five years, would include building a new elementary school, leading to a consolidation of Horace Mann, Roosevelt and Madison elementary schools. There would also be a remodel and addition to Clara Barton, leading to the consolidation of Clara Barton and Hawthorne elementary schools. Washington Elementary would also be rebuilt, consolidating it and McKinley Elementary.

A new middle school would be built on the current McKinley Elementary site, which would replace Ben Franklin Middle School. A new self-directed academy (K-8) and Early Childhood Center would also be built.

Lewis and Clark Elementary, along with Dakota High School/Adult Learning, would be rebuilt.