Bluestem Schools Bond Program

Not Just an Upgrade – A Lifeline for Bluestem Students

Leon, KS

For decades, students and teachers at Bluestem Schools learned and worked in facilities that were falling behind. Science classrooms had sinks that no longer functioned. High school windows couldn’t open. Shop spaces lacked proper ventilation. These weren’t just cosmetic issues – they were daily barriers to learning and safety.

The district knew something had to change, but progress didn’t come easily. After multiple failed attempts to pass a bond, including one that was lost by a handful of votes, Bluestem partnered with Crossland to take a different approach. For three years, our team worked side by side with district leaders, helping them communicate the urgent needs of their schools and build trust within the community. When the bond finally passed, it was more than a vote for construction – it was a vote for the future of Bluestem students.

Crossland then got to work. The project included four strategic additions: two each to the Elementary and High School wings and critical renovations across existing spaces. Corridors were refreshed with new ceilings, flooring, and paint. Art, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Band classrooms were completely reimagined. The new predominantly brick exterior with storefront openings blends seamlessly with existing structures while giving the campus a revitalized look.

Throughout construction, our team prioritized minimizing disruptions. We coordinated furniture relocations, shared equipment, and kept communication clear with staff so students could keep learning while their school transformed around them.

The result is not just a modernized campus; it’s a turning point for Bluestem Schools. What once were outdated, inadequate spaces are now safe, functional, and inspiring environments where students will thrive.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Educational
Cost: $12,340,600
Size: 29,020 SF
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Self-Perform: Demo, Finish Carpentry, Rough Carpentry, Concrete
Owner: USD 205
Architect: Spangenberg Phillips Tice Architecture