Puyallup High School Students Face STEM Setbacks with Aging, Inequitable Learning Spaces

When the Library-Science Building (LSB) at Puyallup High School closed in 2023, it marked the end of an era. Built in 1962 and last modernized more than 35 years ago, the LSB was once a hub for scientific discovery and research. The single-story library wing and two-story classroom building served generations of students, supporting the school’s commitment to academic excellence. Yet after more than 60 years of service, the building’s aging infrastructure and failing systems became too costly to repair. With estimates reaching into the multi-millions, district leaders and the Puyallup School Board made the difficult decision to close the building and prioritize taxpayer funds for more sustainable solutions.

For students and staff, the loss of the LSB has had lasting impacts. Science classes that once had access to dedicated labs are now taught in traditional classrooms lacking the specialized equipment and space needed for advanced experiments. While teachers work creatively to deliver hands-on learning experiences, the absence of modern lab facilities limits opportunities for deeper scientific inquiry. Students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pathways face particular challenges as they prepare for future careers in industries where practical, lab-based skills are essential.

The loss of the LSB has also worsened overcrowding at Puyallup High School. Originally built in 1927 and last modernized in 1995, the main campus building was never designed to accommodate the current student population. Over the years, portable classrooms have become a necessity to address enrollment growth. While these temporary structures provide basic classroom space, they cannot replicate the specialized environments needed for modern STEM and career and technical education (CTE) programs. Navigating the crowded campus—including crossing public streets for certain classes—adds further challenges to the school day for students and staff.

Inadequate facilities also limit opportunities for hands-on career training. In today’s job market, industries from healthcare to technology increasingly require specialized knowledge and technical skills. Modern schools are designed to provide students with dedicated lab spaces, collaborative work areas, and industry-standard equipment to foster career readiness. Without these resources, students may graduate underprepared for the demands of post-secondary education and the workforce.

"Our students deserve spaces that reflect the world they will enter after graduation," said Dr. John Polm, Superintendent of Puyallup School District. "Modern labs and CTE facilities are not just about upgrading buildings—they are about giving our students the tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving world."

Science Learning Opportunities Puyallup High School Students Miss Without Dedicated Lab Spaces:

• Advanced Chemistry and Biology Experiments: Limited access to hands-on activities like chemical titrations, DNA extraction, and microbiology cultures.
• Physics and Engineering Applications: Reduced opportunities for electrical circuit analysis, mechanics experiments, and structural engineering projects.
• Biotechnology and Health Science Labs: Fewer chances to practice lab techniques essential for medical, research, and healthcare careers.
• Environmental Science Fieldwork: Limited ability to conduct real-world testing of soil, water, and air quality using professional-grade lab equipment.

Puyallup High School remains a proud cornerstone of the community, serving families from the Puyallup Valley and North Hill areas. But its aging infrastructure and lack of specialized spaces present real challenges to maintaining academic excellence. As district leaders and the community consider future investments, the need for modern, career-ready learning environments is clear. By addressing these facility needs, the district can ensure that every student has access to the high-quality education they need to thrive.

Did you know?

As part of a one-year pilot program in collaboration with the City of Puyallup, a section of 7th Street SW NW near Puyallup High School is temporarily closed to assess its impact on student safety. If successful, the district aims to make the closure permanent, enhancing safety on campus. This street closure is designed to improve safety for PHS students as they cross the road to reach the new portable classrooms, which were added to alleviate the effects of the Library Science Building closure.