High school hit by Spokane Complex Fires could win $1 million football field makeover

A high school northwest of Spokane is finding a reason to cheer three months after the Spokane Complex Fires.

Lakeside High School of the Nine Mile Falls School District is a finalist for a $1 million football field renovation, part of a “Friday Night 5G Lights” T-Mobile competition. The school already received about $255,00 in cash prizes and an additional weight room makeover as the West Division champions; now winning the grand prize could be a light at the end of the tunnel.

“We feel the love, support, and generosity from people all across our state,” Principal Mike McCune told KIRO Newsradio. “I think it just means so, so much to community members here; in the face of tragedy, we can have a reason to celebrate.”

Students learned on the morning of Oct. 29 that Lakeside High School became a top-four finalist for the new football field award. The high school held a surprise assembly in its gym, inviting staff from across the district to celebrate.

Spokane Complex Fire impacts

The Spokane Complex Fires destroyed about 833 buildings, including many primary residences. The Nine Mile Falls School District was specifically affected by the Autumn Lane fire, which destroyed 165 homes and structures, according to a government agency page, Official Fire Information.

About 90% of the Nine Mile Falls School District was under level three evacuation orders during the Spokane Complex Fires, and many students and staff lost their homes, McCune told KIRO Newsradio.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give our students and our community facilities that are commensurate with our skill levels and facilities that we can be proud of, “McCune said.

A field of possibilities

A new football field could come at an even more important time, as the school district did not pass its capital levy in April’s Special Election.  School facilities are declining, and the field’s current portable bleachers create a challenge, McCune noted.

“Our bleachers do not hold all our students because it is so small. Our band has to play on the track. Our cheerleaders have to cheer, not in front of the student section,” McCune said.

Where you can vote

Voting runs through Nov. 8 on the T-Mobile competition website found here. Voters may cast their vote once per day leading up to the deadline. Lakeside High School is one of four final schools, down from 2,400 schools.

The school that wins the grand prize will be announced on Nov. 12.

Other high schools still in the race are Menasha High School in Wisconsin, Covington High School in Louisiana, and Buffalo Gap High School in Virginia.

Read more of Regan Gallo-Fenz’s stories here. Submit news tips here.