Redmond High School Construction Update - Press Release
145 SE Salmon Dr | Redmond, OR 97756
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 22, 2026
Redmond School District Construction Plan for Redmond High School Following Safety Assessment
Redmond, OR. - Recent developments in the construction process at Redmond High School have rendered portions of the building unsafe to occupy during the 26-27 school year. Following the start of remodel construction this summer, sampling confirmed that asbestos levels in the main academic building are not compatible with occupancy for staff and students during active construction. The Redmond School District is arranging modular classrooms on the Redmond High School campus for the delivery of academic instruction. While the gymnasium and Career and Technical Education (CTE) wing can remain open, the main academic building will not be occupied during the school year.
Background Information
Like many buildings of its era, Redmond High School contains asbestos that has been managed for years. The 2025 Redmond School Bond, passed by Redmond voters in fall 2024, was always going to require addressing the asbestos as part of the modernization process. The District developed a phased construction plan designed to keep portions of the building open and in use while work progressed. That plan was considered a viable path forward until the construction started.
Why did that plan change?
At the onset of work on the building roof at Redmond High School, vibration resulted in delamination of previously identified fireproofing materials containing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). An environmental consulting firm immediately conducted additional sampling throughout the entire building. Testing confirmed elevated levels throughout the main academic building. Once asbestos-containing material is disturbed, we are required to take additional precautions. The test results showed that the main academic building cannot be occupied by staff and students while active construction continued, without additional engineering controls in place to encapsulate or remove the asbestos.
"The phased plan was always our preferred path, but we knew from the beginning that modular classrooms could be necessary, which was discussed during the bond campaign," said Superintendent Charan Cline. “Our top priority is the safety of staff, students, and the construction crews.”
What does this mean for the 2026-27 school year?
The District is preparing modular classrooms on campus at Redmond High School. The academic calendar remains unchanged. Redmond High School students will remain at Redmond High School. At this moment, the gymnasium and CTE wing will remain open. Roof work has not yet occurred over either the CTE wing or the gymnasium. In the gymnasium, a temporary HVAC system is being installed to provide dedicated air circulation separate from the main academic building. Core academic instruction will take place in modular classrooms, while CTE courses, physical education, athletics, and other gymnasium activities will continue in those existing facilities. Band, choir, theater, and ceramics will be utilized at Hugh Hartman Elementary. Hugh Hartman is a short walking distance from Redmond High. Specifics will be communicated in the coming weeks. The District is grateful for the patience and understanding of students, families, and staff as these plans come together.
The remodel remains on schedule.
Moving instruction to modular classrooms clears the way for construction crews to work efficiently and keep the project moving. The District remains optimistic that this approach will allow the remodel to stay on track toward the entire building reopening for the 2027-28 school year.
"The District made a promise to this community to improve district facilities" said Superintendent Charan Cline. "The district will continue to monitor conditions throughout the construction process and will prioritize safety. If circumstances change, we will communicate any updates with families and staff."
Additional information.
A full FAQ is available on the District's bond page and on the Redmond High School website.
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