Kettering, Ohio, October 21, 2025
Kettering Schools has announced a comprehensive strategy to consolidate existing facilities and construct new ones. This plan aims to modernize the educational infrastructure while responding to ongoing changes in student enrollment and addressing the needs of the community. The initiative underscores the commitment to enhance learning environments and adapt to the evolving educational landscape.
Kettering, Ohio – Kettering City School District Unveils $432 Million Facilities Overhaul Plan
Kettering City School District has announced a comprehensive $432 million plan to modernize its educational infrastructure, addressing aging facilities and declining enrollment. The proposal includes demolishing and rebuilding 10 of the district’s 11 schools, with the state contributing 43% of the funding, approximately $175 million. The remaining costs will be covered by local taxpayers through a levy expected to be on the May 2026 ballot. If approved, construction could begin as early as 2029.
Community Engagement and Planning
In March 2025, the district held a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes and gather community input. The plan aims to create more efficient and modern learning environments, with a focus on energy efficiency and updated facilities. The district partnered with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) to develop the proposal, which includes consolidating middle schools and renovating the high school in the first phase, with further plans to be presented in the fall.
Current Facilities and Enrollment Trends
The district’s facilities date back to the 1940s and 1950s, with the oldest being Van Buren Middle School, built in 1949. Enrollment has been declining, prompting the need for consolidation and modernization. The district serves approximately 7,500 students and employs 659 certified teachers and licensed counselors, along with 498 classified personnel.
Next Steps
The district plans to place the levy on the May 2026 ballot. If approved, it will take about a year to design the new buildings and approximately two years to construct the first facilities, with completion expected by 2029 at the earliest. The community is encouraged to participate in upcoming forums and provide feedback to ensure the plan meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Kettering City School District’s facilities overhaul plan?
The Kettering City School District has announced a comprehensive $432 million plan to modernize its educational infrastructure, addressing aging facilities and declining enrollment. The proposal includes demolishing and rebuilding 10 of the district’s 11 schools, with the state contributing 43% of the funding, approximately $175 million. The remaining costs will be covered by local taxpayers through a levy expected to be on the May 2026 ballot. If approved, construction could begin as early as 2029.
How will the community be involved in this plan?
In March 2025, the district held a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes and gather community input. The plan aims to create more efficient and modern learning environments, with a focus on energy efficiency and updated facilities. The district partnered with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) to develop the proposal, which includes consolidating middle schools and renovating the high school in the first phase, with further plans to be presented in the fall.
What are the current facilities and enrollment trends in the district?
The district’s facilities date back to the 1940s and 1950s, with the oldest being Van Buren Middle School, built in 1949. Enrollment has been declining, prompting the need for consolidation and modernization. The district serves approximately 7,500 students and employs 659 certified teachers and licensed counselors, along with 498 classified personnel.
What are the next steps for this plan?
The district plans to place the levy on the May 2026 ballot. If approved, it will take about a year to design the new buildings and approximately two years to construct the first facilities, with completion expected by 2029 at the earliest. The community is encouraged to participate in upcoming forums and provide feedback to ensure the plan meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Key Features of the Kettering City School District’s Facilities Overhaul Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Project Cost | $432 million |
| State Funding Contribution | 43% of the total cost, approximately $175 million |
| Local Funding Requirement | Remaining costs to be covered by local taxpayers through a levy |
| Levy Timeline | Expected to be on the May 2026 ballot |
| Construction Start | If approved, construction could begin as early as 2029 |
| Number of Schools Affected | 10 of the district’s 11 schools to be demolished and rebuilt |
| Community Involvement | Public meetings held to discuss the plan and gather feedback |
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Kettering Schools Plan Facility Consolidation and New Buildings
Author: Construction FL News
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