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Port Angeles Capital Advisory Committee

PACAC - Port Angeles High School Application  PACAC - Franklin Elementary School Application

Background

In November 2024, voters in the Port Angeles School District approved a school construction bond to fund the replacement of all buildings at Port Angeles High School, with the exception of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) buildings and gymnasium. Franklin Elementary School will undergo a total replacement, ensuring a modern, energy-efficient, and student-centered learning environment. The new schools will be designed to enhance educational opportunities, support innovative teaching methods, and provide safe, welcoming spaces for students, staff, and families.

To ensure transparency, community engagement, and sound decision-making throughout this multi-year initiative, the District is establishing two Capital Advisory Committees specifically focused on the high school and Franklin Elementary projects. Community engagement will be key in shaping the new facility to meet the evolving needs of the district.

Both committees will review expenditures, participate in the design process, facilitate community communication, and offer feedback on firm selections.

Committee Membership

The PACAC–High School team and Franklin Elementary School team will be composed of 13 members each, appointed jointly by the Port Angeles School Board and the Superintendent. The goal is to ensure a diverse and representative body with relevant expertise and community perspective.

Membership will include:

  • Superintendent (Chair or designee)
  • Two School Board Members
  • Building School Principal
  • Director of Maintenance
  • Director of Capital Projects
  • One Certificated Staff Member at Specific School
  • One Classified PAHS Staff Member at Specific School
  • Four Community Members
  • One representative from the local Tribal community

Note: Community members will be selected based on experience, interest in school facilities, and commitment to long-term district improvement.

Roles and Responsibilities

1. Public Communication and Engagement

  • Communicate key milestones and project updates to the public.
  • Use approved and consistent messaging; all committee communications will reflect a unified voice.
  • Collaborate with PASD communications staff to disseminate information via:
    • District website and social media
    • Local newspaper and radio
    • School board meetings and newsletters
    • District-wide press releases

2. Oversight of Expenditures

  • Review regular financial and expenditure reports prepared by the District.
  • Ensure that funds are being used in alignment with voter-approved bond measures and board directives.

3. Design Process Participation

  • Collaborate with the architectural and design teams to shape educational specifications and conceptual plans.
  • Participate in work sessions and site visits to review models and proposals.
  • Solicit input from content-specific staff and user groups to inform recommendations.

4. Advisory Role in Selection Processes

  • Provide feedback to the School Board during the selection of:
    • Architectural and engineering firms
    • General contractor/construction management services
    • Key consultants and vendors

5. Reporting and Transparency

  • Submit regular summary reports to the School Board.
  • Maintain records of meetings, decisions, and recommendations.

Roles of the Board and Superintendent

While the PACAC will provide input and feedback, final decision-making authority resides with the Superintendent and the Port Angeles School Board, as required by Washington State law and district policy.

The Board and/or Superintendent will:

  • Approve all contracts and contract amendments
  • Approve change orders
  • Authorize bond fund expenditures
  • Oversee legal and compliance matters
  • Approve final construction plans and project schedules

Final Notes

The PACAC–High School and Franklin Elementary School will convene separately, monthly or as needed, with additional subcommittee meetings scheduled during critical phases of the project. The District is committed to ensuring this committee operates with transparency, integrity, and inclusivity.

PACAC - Port Angeles High School Application  PACAC - Franklin Elementary School Application