Students Share Vision for Future Campus Space at PHS

Last week, Capital Projects and Facility Planning teams met with students at Puyallup High School this September to imagine the future of the campus. The conversation began with student safety.  

The pilot closure of portions of 7th Street NW and West Main is a condition of a Conditional Use Permit issued by the City of Puyallup in July 2024 to reduce the risks students face when crossing the street multiple times each day. With temporary gates now in place, the focus is shifting to how this space might become a permanent part of campus life rather than a roadway. Students were asked to share how the area could look and function if designed to prioritize safety, connection, and community. 

Students identified the walking paths they use each day and the areas that can cause stress when moving between buildings. From there, they shared ideas to make the campus feel more connected. Nearly all agreed on the value of adding green space, including raised garden beds and trees. Students also expressed interest in areas for active recreation during lunch, along with additional tables for eating and gathering. 

Puyallup High School is the district’s most urban high school campus and the only one that spans multiple city blocks. Students described how creating a shared campus space, rather than navigating closed streets, could help strengthen their sense of belonging and provide more opportunities for connection. 

“Student voice is key to this process,” said Brian Devereux, Director of Facility Planning. “They live the campus experience every day, so their ideas help us understand what works, what doesn’t, and what could make the campus feel more unified.” 

While funding for major projects would require voter approval of a future bond, students showed creativity by suggesting low-cost, high-impact ideas to enhance their school environment. 

“This visioning exercise gave students the chance to imagine what their campus could become,” said Brady Martin, Executive Director of Construction, Maintenance and Facility Planning. “Their input will guide how we think about improvements that make sense for the Puyallup High School community.” 

The road closure pilot program is currently in place for one year in collaboration with the City of Puyallup. The city will ultimately determine whether the section of 7th Street NW remains closed beyond the pilot. This visioning session provided students an opportunity to contribute their ideas and influence how the campus could evolve if that decision is made. 
 
Join us for a community open house on Monday, October 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Puyallup High School Commons to review traffic analysis updates, student-led improvement concepts, and to provide feedback to school and district staff.