Roseburg Schools is forming a new Community Facilities Advisory Committee and inviting local residents to apply. The committee will help the district assess the condition of its aging school buildings and consider options for meeting long-term facility needs. 

Committee members will take a close look at needs such as aging infrastructure, safety and security, student privacy and accessibility, improved air quality and building systems that support student wellness, and learning-space updates that reflect today’s instructional needs. 

“We’ve had many conversations with our community about the condition of our schools and the challenges and opportunities we face,” said Superintendent Jared Cordon. “We’ve listened closely, to concerns about affordability, to questions about priorities, and to the desire for more transparency and community involvement. This committee is an opportunity to take a fresh, community-centered look at where we are today, define where we need to go, and turn that vision into clear next steps.”

The average age of schools in the district is around 76 years, and despite ongoing maintenance efforts, many buildings now require long-term solutions. In recent years, Roseburg Schools has invested more than $25 million in facility improvements. This includes approximately $18 million in grants, including competitive funding secured through careful planning and diligent work by district staff. These investments have supported seismic upgrades, safety improvements, and critical infrastructure needs. As the district looks ahead, the scale and complexity of remaining facility needs make it important to engage the broader community in thoughtful discussion about long-term solutions.

Across Roseburg, staff and leaders are working hard to enrich learning, from new early literacy efforts to expanded high school career pathways. School buildings play a critical role in supporting these experiences. When classrooms are safe and welcoming, students are better able to learn, connect, thrive and envision a future in their community. And when schools are strong, our community is stronger, through better student outcomes, community pride, and a healthier and more innovative future for Roseburg.

“We’re proud of the work our team has done to care for our schools with the resources available,” Cordon said. “At the same time, we know there are real concerns about cost and long-term sustainability. This committee gives us a chance to bring community voices to the table to study the facts, examine school sites, and explore what’s needed to ensure our facilities support safe, effective learning environments for years to come.”

Committee members will meet from February through June 2026. Meetings will take place at school sites across the district to provide participants with a firsthand look at both the strengths and challenges of Roseburg’s schools. The group will engage with data on building conditions, safety and accessibility, and student learning needs, all with the goal of developing recommendations to share with the superintendent.

The group will look at a variety of possible approaches to address facility needs, which may include additional grant opportunities, phased maintenance plans or a potential bond measure.

All meetings will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., with refreshments provided. A commitment to attend all sessions is requested. Potential facility tours will be scheduled at a later date. 

Meeting schedule:
•    Meeting 1: February 10, 2026
•    Meeting 2: March 10, 2026
•    Meeting 3: April 7, 2026
•    Meeting 4: May 12, 2026
•    Meeting 5: June 9, 2026

The district is seeking community members who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to this important conversation, rooted in our shared commitment to inspiring growth, building community and expanding opportunities for every student.

Applications will be accepted through January 17 at this online form.  Hard-copy applications are available by contacting Executive Assistant Janet Kischel at 541-440-4014.