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Highline Public Schools
15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW Burien, WA 98166

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Highline Public Schools
15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW Burien, WA 98166

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Chinook Middle School

Chinook Partial Rebuild & Modernization: $161.3 million

Built in 1957, Chinook has an overall building condition score of 58%, with aging systems and increasing maintenance needs. The campus includes four separate buildings and several portables, which do not meet today’s safety standards for a single, controlled entry.
 

This page provides information about a project recommended by CFAC to do a partial rebuild & modernization of Chinook Middle School. The school board will ultimately decide whether to include it in a future bond measure.

chinook students

Student works on a project at Chinook Middle School.

Current Conditions at Chinook Middle School

Chinook Middle School was built in 1957 and has an overall building condition score of 58%, with aging systems and increasing maintenance needs. The campus includes four separate buildings and several portables, which do not meet today’s safety standards for a single, controlled entry

What Does Modernization & Partial Rebuild Mean?  

  • A partial rebuild and modernization would replace the oldest, most outdated parts of the campus while improving and extending the life of buildings that can still serve students well. 
  • Some existing buildings would be demolished and replaced with new construction. 
  • Other portions of the school would be renovated and fully updated as well as integrated into the new construction.  
  • All portables would be removed and replaced with permanent classrooms.  
  • The campus design will connect the remaining buildings with new construction, creating a single point of entry and improving safety, as well as increasing accessibility.   

Expected Improvements 

  • New HVAC system for reliable heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems for healthier classrooms  
  • Updated plumbing, electrical and technology infrastructure  
  • Modern safety features, including sprinklers and life safety systems  
  • Seismic upgrades to improve earthquake safety  
  • Roof repairs and/or replacement to protect the building long term  
  • Improved accessibility, including ramps and updated restrooms  
  • Refreshed interior spaces that support teaching and learning  

Cost Savings 

  • This approach balances investment, cost and long-term value. 
  • At an estimated $161.3 million, this project costs less than a full rebuild or full replacement project, while still addressing the most critical needs.  
  • It focuses resources on replacing the most outdated buildings and improving the parts of the campus that can continue to serve students.  
  • It helps maximize the impact of bond dollars, allowing investment across more schools and priorities.  
  • It reduces future maintenance costs by addressing aging systems. 

This is a significant investment and would require Chinook to temporarily relocate to an interim site during construction. However, this approach delivers a modern, safe school while being more cost-effective than a full rebuild. 

Timeline

If the board decides to place the Chinook project on the November 2026 ballot, here is a summary of the timeline:  

  • November 2026: Bond measure goes to voters (requires 60% approval).  
  • Early 2029: Design committee convenes and begins an approximately 18- to 22-month design process.  
  • Summer 2030: Design process continues concurrently as permitting begins.  
  • Summer 2031: School relocates to Olympic Interim Site 
  • Summer 2031: Partial demolition, construction and modernization begin.  
  • Fall 2033: Chinook opens  

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