Frequently Asked Questions

Why is ASB undertaking this project?

Our facilities have served the school well over many years, but present major challenges in continuing to serve our community with the highest quality education.  Challenges include:

• Our primary school wing has not been updated since it was built in 1947  
• There is insufficient classroom space to accommodate all grades and specialty classes
• Existing facilities are not energy efficient and require precious financial resources to maintain
• Collaborative and common spaces are insufficient for a 21st century education
• Our library is in our hallways and classrooms and offers no common gathering spaces     
• There is insufficient administrative, work and storage space
• ASB lacks a well-defined and welcoming entrance that conveys a sense of quality and excellence      

Can you share more information about the new Library and Innovation Center and how it will serve ASB students?

This new 1,200 square foot space will be shared by all grades and include a modern library, as well as a dedicated ‘innovation’ space for students to create, problem-solve, hold experiments and labs, and apply their learning in a creative atmosphere.   

Will the entire project be completed at once or phased over time?

The project will be phased over time.  Phase I includes construction of the new Library & Innovation Center, two new classrooms, office and conference space and new school entry.  Phase II includes renovation of the 1947 (primary school) wing, including new roof, windows, HVAC and electrical systems, and a general refresh.     

What is the construction timeline?

The total Phase I construction timeline is approximately 12 months. Phase I construction is scheduled to begin this summer and will continue through summer of 2019.  Our hope is to begin as soon as possible, but this timeline is contingent upon final building permits from the City of Seattle. Phase II construction will likely begin in June 2019 (while students are on summer vacation) and completed by early September 2019.   

The expansion will encroach on the area occupied by the Big Toy. What will happen to the Big Toy?

The Big Toy will be moved from its current location to the northwest corner of the playground adjacent to the gym wall. It will be surrounded by landscaping for both safety and aesthetic purposes.  

How will construction this impact traffic, drop off and pick up?

Our traffic patterns will be adjusted to allow for construction. This will be determined as we get closer to the start of the new school year.  We will communicate this information to families as soon as possible.

How does construction impact classes/locations for next year (i.e., Drama, Music, 5th grade)?

Drama and Music will travel to classrooms to provide the same high-quality curriculum. Our fifth grade will temporarily move to the Performing Arts Center.   

How will safety be handled during construction?

ASB has hired a project manager to work closely with the contractor and project superintendent to ensure safety throughout the construction timeline.     

With its expanded facilities, does the school plan to grow from its current enrollment of 500 students?

While the school has enrollment of approximately 500 students, we currently have the capacity to serve 560. This enrollment capacity will remain unchanged once the project is completed.   

FAQ: FUNDING AND CAMPAIGN QUESTIONS

How much funding is needed to build and renovate these facilities? Where will these dollars come from?

The total cost for both Phase I and II is $6.53 million. The cost of Phase I is projected to be $5.17 million.  The cost of Phase II is projected to be $1.35 million. We have undertaken a major fundraising campaign to meet these costs.   

We would like to make an impactful financial commitment to the campaign, but can’t give it all at once.  Can we make a pledge?

Yes, pledges are a way to make a larger financial commitment more affordable. Pledges of $50,000 or more can be fulfilled over a period of up to five years.  Pledges of less than $50,000 can be fulfilled over a period of up to three years.

How can we learn more about the project and campaign?

All ASB parents will be invited to an informational gathering hosted by a fellow parent. These gatherings have already begun and will continue through the early fall. If you have not yet been invited, please stay tuned.

I have older kids.  Why should I participate in or contribute to the campaign if my children won't really benefit from the new and renovated facilities?

This is a historic campaign that will impact more than this current generation of students. As such, it is an opportunity for families to leave a legacy, just as past families left to us.  It’s also an opportunity, through financial support, to express gratitude and give back for the outstanding education provided to your children.

This is a challenging time for us to contribute, but we believe in this project and want to help.

The campaign is built around multi-year pledge commitments. If it would be helpful, you can make a pledge commitment now and begin making payments on a schedule that is convenient to you.