A rendering of the Pleasanton Public Schools proposed activities entrance, (Courtesy)
PLEASANTON — Pleasanton Public Schools is holding a groundbreaking ceremony for their new addition on Thursday, Sept. 18 at 8:30 a.m.
The event will be held at the elementary playground and coffee and breakfast treats will be provided for community members.
Voters in the Pleasanton Public Schools district approved a $11,000,000 bond during a special election held on Tuesday, March 11. According to the Buffalo County Election Commissioner, there were 341 votes for the bond and 265 votes against, with a total of 606 votes being cast.
The bond, not to exceed $11,000,000, would create much-needed academic space for students and enhance learning environments.
The project addresses space concerns that the board has been discussing since January 2022. The need became even more pressing as enrollment continued to climb, prompting the district to purchase six acres north of the school in September 2023.
Throughout the summer of 2024, the board visited other schools to explore potential solutions, and in the fall, collaborated with architects, community members, and staff to refine the proposal that was approved by voters.
“Our PreK-12 enrollment has grown significantly over the past decade, from 264 to 331 students,” said Seth Kucera, board president. “Birth-to-five census numbers forecast continued steady growth, reaching an estimated 353 students within the next five years. This project is essential to accommodate our growing student body and provide them with the best possible learning environment.”
Superintendent Nathan Lightle said student numbers have grown to the point that they have had to split class sizes when they reach around 25 students. He said they prefer to split class sizes, so students have more one-on-one education.
“Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of smaller class sizes on student learning,” Lightle said. “Whether a student requires additional challenges or extra support, this personalized approach boosts academic performance and builds confidence.”
Lightle explained that more one-on-one time allows teachers to better observe and engage with each child, identify areas for growth, celebrate successes, and truly get to know each student on a personal level.
Adding classrooms would allow for additional teachers and allow more specialized classes for the students who are pursuing different career paths.
The expanded classrooms would allow for two separate tracks of math, science, English, social studies at the high school level and at the elementary level for two unit and specialist classes.
Lightle also noted that many schools of Pleasanton size have a shop and agricultural education spaces, but they only have one shop space now.
For context, Lightle said the high school building was built in 1993 and elementary wing was added in 2016. He said their facilities are relatively new given school construction and provide a great learning environment, but more space is needed.
Board president Kucera also spoke and said the classrooms are currently maxed out and more space is needed as the community continues to grow. “We have more kids coming here every year.”
Kucera said that Pleasanton Public Schools is an integral part of the community, and the people are supportive, with many families sending multiple generations to be educated in the same school.
“This project allows us to preserve the excellent education Pleasanton is known for, ensuring our students continue to receive the quality education they deserve, even as we grow,” Lightle said.
