Fairfield Middle School Construction Project Advances posted 5/6/26

Description

Please direct inquiries to: Zach Wigle, Superintendent (319) 520-8082 zach.wigle@fairfieldsfuture.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5th, 2026 Fairfield Middle School Construction Project Advances FAIRFIELD, IA — Over the past several years, the district has remained committed to providing a modern, functional, and inspiring learning environment for our middle school students. One of our district priorities is connected directly to facility improvements. While we have had three unsuccessful General Obligation (GO) bond attempts to fully fund a new middle school, that commitment has not wavered. Instead, it has challenged us to think differently and act creatively. In response, we have developed a thoughtful, fiscally responsible plan that maximizes the use of our existing SAVE (Secure an Advanced Vision for Education) funds—generated through a statewide 1% sales tax dedicated to school infrastructure. These funds stay in our community and can be used for building improvements, safety upgrades, and technology, rather than daily operations or salaries. By leveraging SAVE dollars, we can reduce the need for property tax increases while moving forward with renovations and an expansion of our current middle school. Over the past four months, the Board has engaged in multiple work sessions, along with numerous committee meetings, to shape a multi-phased approach that best serves our students and community. Phase 1 of this plan represents a significant step forward. It includes bonding against SAVE for approximately $22.5 million, along with the use of $4 million from our existing SAVE fund. These resources will allow us to construct a 50,000 square foot addition to the north of the current middle school. This will be an academic wing for students in 5th-8th grade consisting of 31 classrooms and a new secure entrance. Most importantly, this phase will be completed without increasing taxes for our community. In addition to the new construction, we will invest a portion of the funds into targeted improvements within the existing building, with a primary focus on addressing drainage issues and water infiltration. These upgrades will apply to all areas except the current two-story section on the east side, which is scheduled for demolition following completion of the new addition, anticipated in September 2028. Building assessments indicated that modernizing the two-story wing would not be the most effective use of resources.