January 28, 2025
As part of an ongoing effort to improve school facilities and provide a welcoming environment for students, staff, and families, Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) has been installing new carpeting in key areas of several schools. This project is funded through 2022 Bond dollars, with a total budget allocation of $755,805.83 for flooring upgrades at Flagstaff High School, Sinagua Middle School, Thomas Elementary, and Summit High School.
The flooring improvements, approved by the FUSD Governing Board on June 25, 2024, include the replacement of outdated carpet and linoleum systems in high-traffic areas. The new carpet tiles, installed by Diversified Flooring Solutions (DFS), not only enhance durability but also incorporate school colors, adding a fresh and branded look to each campus. Unlike previous broadloom carpet installations, these carpet tiles allow for easier maintenance and quick replacements when necessary.
According to Justin Nabors, FUSD’s Director of Operations, the decision to replace carpets was based primarily on safety concerns. Schools with the oldest carpets—those posing potential trip hazards—were prioritized for installation. Additionally, schools with significantly stained or worn flooring were considered to ensure a cleaner and more polished appearance.
“So far, carpets have been installed at Flagstaff High, Sinagua, Thomas, and Summit, with three more schools planned for upgrades this summer,” Nabors explained. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with students, staff, and families appreciating the improvements.”
One notable design feature is the use of accent carpeting in school colors, which adds a unique touch to common areas. The new carpets have been installed primarily in hallways, entryways, and other high-traffic zones, rather than in individual classrooms.
Future carpet installations will continue to follow a needs-based assessment, prioritizing safety and facility wear over cosmetic updates. The next phase of installations will be determined based on evaluations conducted later this year.
For those interested in seeing the changes firsthand, Nabors recommends visiting Flagstaff High, Sinagua, Thomas, or Summit, where the transformations are most visible at main entrances and common walkways.
Through this initiative, FUSD continues its commitment to providing safe, clean, and visually appealing learning environments for all students.
