Survey shows support for Valley Middle School project

The Grand Forks School Board got its first look at the survey results regarding the future of Valley Middle School last night (Monday).

Over 12-hundred people responded to the survey. When asked if they would support a $61 million dollar bond referendum to raze the existing school and build a new $55 million dollar Valley – plus a $6 million dollar central kitchen – 73.31% of respondents said “yes.”

Survey Strategist Perry Hibner of the Donavan Group says when you focus on a comparison group analysis the new build had the support of over 60% of respondents.  “It suggests a number of people who took this survey feel like Valley Middle School has reached its shelf life.”

Kyle Kvamme of ICON Architects says it would have been nice if more people responded to the survey.  “Once you get to 400 votes the numbers don’t move that much.”

The survey also showed support for $18 million in upgrades for public safety and $7 million for roof repairs elsewhere in the district. Board member Bill Palmiscno says that might be too much of an ask.  “The one thing we need to stay focused on is Valley Middle School.”

The district is eyeing a spring date for the bond election.