Salem, Ore. – Salem-Keizer Public Schools announced the completion of bond-funded improvements at Waldo Middle School today during a live-streamed ribbon-cutting celebration. More than $14 million has been invested in improvements at Waldo.
Highlights of the improvements at the school include four new classrooms, four new science labs, a cafeteria expansion, a multipurpose fitness room, a new secured vestibule at the front entry and more.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, students began the school year online in comprehensive distance learning. The new spaces at Waldo will be used by teachers to deliver remote instruction until it’s safe to return in person. “We are grateful to our teachers who are working diligently to ensure that our students have the resources to succeed in online learning,” said superintendent Christy Perry. “These new spaces are being put to good use as teachers deliver online curriculum and comprehensive distance learning for our students.”
Principal Tricia Nelson expressed her gratitude towards Salem and Keizer voters: “Without our community, none of this would be possible. It’s thanks to their investments that our facilities are now better equipped to meet the needs of our growing student population.”
Waldo Middle School is the fifth school to complete construction in the bond program. Some level of improvement is planned at all schools in the district, with major expansions and renovations planned at 32 schools.
The $619.7 million bond was approved by voters in May 2018 and promises to expand career-technical (vocational) education 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 a video tour of the new and renovated spaces following the completion of construction at Waldo.