September 20, 2016

School District News

From Superintendent

Robert Vian

Skate Park

The City of Orofino has been considering building a skate park for several years.  Funds are always an issue when building something like a park, especially when a citizens group is also trying to raise funds for a swimming pool.

It is my understanding that the school district acquired a large chunk of land about 15 years ago from the U.S. Forrest Service.  This land currently houses the Bus Maintenance and Parking Area, a fenced area that was used as parking by the Forrest Service, and the Programs Office (Special Education Program, Nursing Program, Technology Program, and Food Service Program).

The parking area has not been used for any purpose since the land was acquired. 

I suggested to the Board of Trustees that they consider using the old parking area to serve the youth of the district with a skate park, in cooperation with the City.  The Board has agreed to consider donating the land to the city with the stipulation that the land be used for recreation, that the city take all responsibility for developing the skate park, and assume any liability associated with the park. 

No decision has been made regarding the donation of the land.  The city has agreed to take ownership and responsibility for the park.  The skate park construction will rely on grants and local fund raising.  It is my understanding that the city will not use local funds to build the park.

Restrooms and a safe route for kids to travel to the park are of concern and both issues will be addressed by the city. The city’s transportation plan includes improving sidewalks or a trail out River Road and connecting the “snake” side walk with other city sidewalks.

The issue has been discussed at the past two school board meetings.  If you would like to have input into this issue, please attend the Trustee’s meeting on Oct. 17^th at Orofino High School or send a written correspondence to me at PO Box 2259, 83544 or email at vianr@sd171.k12.id.us