Thank you, voters! Alcott Elementary Rebuild & Enlarge Groundbreaking Ceremony

On May 27, 2026, Lake Washington School District celebrated a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Rebuild & Enlarge project at Alcott Elementary.

The Rebuild & Enlarge of Alcott Elementary project is funded by the voter-approved 2024 Building Excellence Capital Construction Levy, which underscores the community's commitment to providing high-quality educational facilities for its students.

The newly rebuilt and enlarged Alcott Elementary will be constructed to create additional permanent capacity, and provide a new, state-of-the-art learning environment for Alcott students.

Event highlights

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including members of the school district administration, project stakeholders and community members. The event featured a ceremonial groundbreaking and a presentation outlining the project's scope and benefits. Speakers included Dr. Jon Holmen, Superintendent; Brian Buck, Executive Director of Support Services; Jon Hedin, Principal of Alcott Elementary and Alcott Elementary fifth graders Raj Pattekar, Anna Kwon and Blake Perez. Alcott Elementary students and staff were joined by Lisa Guthrie, LWSD Board of Directors President; Lindsey Yocum, LWSD Board of Directors Legislative Representative; Aspen Richter, LWSD Board of Director; Barbara Posthumus, Associate Superintendent of Business and Support Services; Pablo Ortega, LWSD Associate Superintendent of Student Support and Programs; and Menka Soni, City of Redmond Councilmember. Members of the design build team from Cornerstone Construction and architecture firm Mithun also attended the event.

During the ceremony, speakers shared the vision for a modern, state-of-the-art school that enhances the learning environment and reflects the district’s commitment to educational excellence. The newly rebuilt and enlarged Alcott Elementary will provide a safe, inclusive environment where all students feel welcomed and supported. Thoughtfully designed spaces will foster collaboration, creativity and connection, helping students thrive academically, socially and emotionally. From classrooms and shared learning areas to outdoor spaces, every aspect of the project is guided by a focus on student well-being and success.

Project details:

• Project name: Rebuild & Enlarge Alcott Elementary
• Location: 4213 228th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA 98053
• Start date: Summer 2026
• Planned opening: Fall 2027
• Funding source: 2024 Building Excellence Capital Construction Levy
• Permanent capacity: 690 students
• Features: The new building is designed to support innovative teaching and learning, with flexible instructional spaces, updated technology and improved building systems that promote safety, accessibility and sustainability.

Visit the Alcott Elementary Rebuild and Enlarge project webpage for more information about the project and the 2024 Building Excellence Capital Construction Levy.

Watch a video recap of the event: