January 27, 2025
Big changes are ahead for Kinsey Inquiry and Discovery School as the Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) prepares to relocate and rebuild the beloved school. Thanks to bond funding approved by the Flagstaff community, the new Kinsey Elementary will be constructed on a 12-acre site south of I-40 and west of South Lone Tree Road. The decision to move forward with the project comes after careful consideration of the current building’s limitations and the need to create a modern, accessible, and safe environment for students, staff, and families.
The new location, owned by the Arizona Board of Regents for Northern Arizona University (NAU), presents an ideal setting for the future of Kinsey. Positioned conveniently near the Bow & Arrow Acres neighborhood and planned housing developments, the site will offer improved access for many Kinsey families. The school will feature state-of-the-art classrooms and outdoor learning spaces designed to meet the highest standards of modern education. Enhanced traffic flow and pedestrian access at the new site will also provide increased safety for students and families, addressing concerns at the current location.
This project represents a collaborative effort between FUSD and NAU, with both organizations recognizing the mutual benefits of exchanging properties to advance their respective educational missions. An Intergovernmental Agreement outlining the exchange was presented to the FUSD Governing Board on December 10, 2024, and continues progressing through the approval process.
Although the project is still in its early stages, FUSD is committed to informing the community as plans for the new Kinsey Elementary progress. Updates on the design and construction timeline will be shared in the coming months, and the district looks forward to celebrating the opening of the new school in the 2026-2027 school year.
Kinsey Inquiry and Discovery School has long been a cornerstone of the community, and this relocation ensures a future where it can continue to inspire and educate students in a modern, safe, and innovative environment. FUSD extends its gratitude to families, staff, and the entire community for their continued support as it builds a brighter future for Kinsey Elementary.
