Oak Harbor schools secure funding for new buildings through collaboration and innovation

Oak Harbor Public Schools successfully secured $136 million from the Department of Defense to replace aging school buildings, a crucial step for its military-connected student population, which comprises 40% of enrollment. Collaboration among federal, state, and local leaders proved essential after two bond measures failed to gain voter support. Superintendent Michelle Kuss-Cybula's efforts included a trip to Washington, D. C. to advocate for funding from the state's Defense Community Compatibility Account.

This new construction will benefit all students by providing safer and better-equipped learning environments, with features designed to meet Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection specifications. “There’s no debt to the community for any of this,” Kuss-Cybula highlighted, reassuring local families. The district's commitment to securing funding reflects a dedication to enhancing educational quality. The new buildings will accommodate programs such as Hand-in-Hand preschool and the Oak Harbor Virtual Academy, promoting a comprehensive learning experience. As construction progresses, the community looks forward to the positive changes this investment will bring.