The Governing Board of Paradise Valley School District took significant steps towards the future of Indian Bend Elementary School during its regular meeting on May 1, 2025. The board unanimously approved the award of a construction management contract to Chase Building Team, marking a pivotal moment in the school's rebuild process.

The decision follows a thorough selection process that began with a request for qualifications issued on March 10, which attracted seven submissions. After careful evaluation and interviews with the top three firms, Chase Building Team was recommended for the role. Their responsibilities will include preconstruction services, collaborating with the district and the selected architectural firm, Orcut Winslow, to ensure the project meets community needs and budgetary constraints.

The preconstruction phase is expected to last approximately three to four months, culminating in a guaranteed maximum price proposal to be presented at the board's August meeting. This collaborative effort has already involved input from the Indian Bend community, with plans for further engagement, including meetings with students.

In addition to the construction update, the board reviewed the final revision of the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. The revision reflects a decrease of approximately $1.2 million compared to the adopted budget, primarily due to changes in student enrollment figures. The board discussed the implications of expiring federal funding, particularly the ESSER 3 grant, which will significantly impact future budgets.

The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to transparency and community involvement in both the rebuilding of Indian Bend Elementary and the management of its financial resources. As the district moves forward, it aims to ensure that the new school meets the evolving needs of its students and the surrounding community.