The Washoe County School Board announced Tuesday that the new elementary school to be built on the former Pine Middle School campus will be called Smithridge. The name was chosen from a shortlist of three options that were presented to the public earlier this year.
Community input guided the decision
According to the district, a majority of residents who responded to the naming survey indicated a preference for Smithridge over the other two finalists, John Flynn and Juanita Ydiando. The board said the feedback reflected a desire to preserve the historic identity of the area, as the name aligns closely with the existing Smithridge Elementary that sits nearby.
Location and future plans
The new school will occupy the site of the former Pine Middle School, which was closed in 2023 due to declining enrollment. The location is just a short walk from the current Smithridge Elementary, creating a consolidated educational hub for families in the region. District officials expect the new campus to open for the 2028‑2029 school year, offering modern classrooms, expanded athletic facilities, and a focus on STEM and arts programming.
Board members’ remarks
Board Chairwoman Maria Hernandez praised the community’s involvement, stating, “We are grateful to the families, teachers, and neighbors who took the time to share their thoughts. Choosing a name that resonates with our community helps set a positive tone for the school’s future.” Other board members echoed the sentiment, noting that the name Smithridge honors local heritage while providing a fresh start for the growing student population.
What the name means for families
For parents in Washoe County, the decision offers clarity as the district moves forward with construction plans, zoning approvals, and budgeting for the new facility. The board will soon release a detailed timeline for ground‑breaking, as well as information on enrollment zones and transportation routes.
Next steps
District officials will begin the design phase later this fall, working with architects to incorporate input from teachers and parents on classroom layouts and extracurricular spaces. Community members are invited to attend future public meetings where the board will discuss funding allocations, safety measures, and the integration of the new school into the existing district network.
The naming decision underscores the Washoe County School Board’s commitment to transparency and community partnership, values that align with the district’s broader mission to provide a high‑quality, faith‑affirming education for all students.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
