L ater this week, Snoqualmie Valley registered voters will receive their March 10 mail-in ballot with one proposition to consider — the $27.5 million school bond.

Not only does this bond address vital infrastructure and system upgrades for the majority of our schools, 60 percent passage of this bond would also relieve classroom overcrowding at Mount Si High School for the next few years.

This week’s column focuses on how this bond, and some other intriguing ideas underway, can improve our crowded high school environment next year.

If approved, the bond will purchase, site and equip 12 modular classrooms (six double units) on the Mount Si High School campus. Modular units would provide new classroom space for up to 360 students and be elevated above flood levels.

The new classrooms would include restrooms, a roof structure connecting the units, and a secure area where lockers could potentially be placed.

In addition to the classroom space that this bond will fund, new ideas are being explored to alleviate crowding to common areas within Mount Si High School. Ironically, recent flood damage repairs at the high school sparked some different ways of thinking about lunchroom and hallway congestion. One idea includes covering an unused courtyard and converting it into a second lunchroom and multi-purpose room. This expansion would essentially double the square footage of the current lunch area, accommodating food service and other activities.

Adding an entrance to this new “Wildcat Courtyard” from the main hallway across from the library would also provide another route through which students can pass.

We’re excited to further explore this idea, which would utilize existing capital funds. If feasible, it will have very positive impact on students and staff.

More information about new ideas to expand Mount Si High School common areas under consideration, and facts about the March 10 school bond are available on the district Web site at www.svsd410.org.

Thank you again for your support of Snoqualmie Valley children and schools.

• Joel Aune is superintendent of Snoqualmie Valley School District. Call him at (425) 831-8000.