Harvard CUSD 50 is excited to share an update on the north property and invite community participation in shaping its future.
When the district acquired 21.85 acres adjacent to Harvard High School in January 2024, it marked a transformational opportunity for our community, with the potential to support student programming and address long-standing facility needs.
As we move forward, we are taking a collaborative, community-guided approach. The district has partnered with EOSullivan Consulting to lead stakeholder engagement efforts beginning this spring. This process will help us understand what matters most to our community and ensure the site development aligns with our shared vision for CUSD 50. At this time, no final decisions have been made regarding development.
“I share the excitement about the possibilities of this development, but choosing the best use of this property requires patience and meaningful input from our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Brandon C. White. "Since my arrival in July, our direction has not changed, and a decision for this site has not been made. We have done our due diligence and imagined what this space might be, not necessarily what it will be. It’s important that this investment has a long-term, positive impact on our community."
Potential uses identified during the initial planning phase include expanded athletic facilities, additional parking, water retention infrastructure, Harvard High School expansion possibilities, and agriculture and FFA programming space. However, the community's voice will play a key role in determining which opportunities best serve our students and district.
During the next growing season, a local farmer will cultivate the property. The district engaged in an open bidding process to select the farmer, ensuring productive use of the previously farmed land while long-term development plans take shape.
We look forward to engaging with families, staff, and stakeholders as we work together to shape the future of our district with this opportunity. Details about community engagement sessions will be shared in the coming weeks.