Salem Ore. – Salem-Keizer Public Schools today announced the completion of bond-funded improvements at McNary High School in a virtual ribbon-cutting celebration video. Over $54 million has been invested in improvements at McNary, making it one of the largest projects in the district.
Work at McNary concluded on time and on budget. Highlights of improvements at the school include 14 new classrooms, one new science lab, a new music room, additional special education classrooms, a new, welcoming and secured check-in space at the front entry, additional parking, improved traffic flow and four expanded career-technical (vocational) education spaces, including spaces for the culinary, digital media, residential construction and automotive programs.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, students will start the school year remotely. The new spaces at McNary will be used by teachers to deliver remote instruction until it’s safe to offer in-person learning. “Teachers will be here, hoping that we can slow the spread, get our metrics down, and get our students back at school,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “We’re going to emerge from this stronger than before, more nimble, and really ready to have students back in person.”
McNary Principal Eric Jespersen thanked the voters for supporting students by passing the bond. “I’m grateful to the voters in Keizer and Salem who have invested in the future of our students and passed this historic bond measure. Keizer really cares about its students and it shows.” said Jespersen.
McNary High is the third school to complete work in the bond program. Some level of improvement is planned at all schools in the district, with major expansions planned at 32 schools.
The $619.7 million bond was approved by voters in May 2018 and promises to expand career-technical (vocational) and science education opportunities, improve safety and security, add space to relieve overcrowding and protect the community’s investment in district facilities.
More information about the 2018 bond program can be found on the district’s bond page.
Below is the McNary High School ribbon-cutting video celebration.