Whether addressing operational challenges, securing funding or advocating for public education at the state level, we bring creative problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to ensure your school district thrives.
We take great pride in our long-standing commitment to serving the unique needs of school districts. Our firm has represented school districts across Oregon and Washington, providing creative and practical advice to prepare for and address various legal challenges.
Our team offers a full range of legal services to assist school districts with:
- School finance, including bonds, levies and state funding
- Capital facilities development, including construction, real estate, land use and environmental law
- Insurance coverage
- Litigation and administrative proceedings
- Employment
School Finance
As bond counsel to more than 130 school districts across Oregon and Washington, we understand what’s needed to secure funding for major capital projects through general obligation bonds, levies and other financial instruments. Our team advises on arbitrage rebate compliance, disclosure under federal securities laws, and innovative funding mechanisms, including limited general obligation bonds and lease-purchase agreements. We have also played a key role in drafting and securing legislation that directly benefits school district operations and finances.
School District Litigation
Our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully advocating for school districts, including landmark cases like McCleary v. State, led by Foster Garvey’s Tom Ahearne. This case established the state of Washington’s constitutional obligation to provide ample funding for education. We remain at the forefront of legal advocacy in education funding, helping school districts protect their rights and secure necessary resources.
Public Disclosure
Navigating the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) and the Public Records Act (PRA) can be complex. Our team provides clear guidance on compliance, executive session procedures, meeting notices, and public records requests. We assist in drafting policies and provide litigation counsel when disputes arise, ensuring school districts meet their transparency obligations while safeguarding their interests.
School Finance
From site acquisition to project completion, we offer comprehensive support for the construction of capital facilities projects. Our attorneys assist with contractor agreements, bid processes, general contractor/construction manager (GC/CM) projects and dispute resolution. We also provide counsel on capital facility planning, ensuring compliance with applicable laws while helping districts meet their growth and infrastructure needs.
Construction
As bond counsel to more than 130 school districts across Oregon and Washington, we understand what’s needed to secure funding for major capital projects through general obligation bonds, levies and other financial instruments. Our team advises on arbitrage rebate compliance, disclosure under federal securities laws, and innovative funding mechanisms, including limited general obligation bonds and lease-purchase agreements. We have also played a key role in drafting and securing legislation that directly benefits school district operations and finances.
Real Estate, Land Use & Environmental
Our team has deep experience in property transactions, land use planning and environmental compliance for school districts. We frequently assist with property acquisitions, leases, boundary disputes and permitting. Our attorneys often partner with clients to obtain land use and environmental permits and approval for school construction and work with state and local administrative and municipal agencies and officers. Additionally, we have experience with water rights, water quality, SEPA, NEPA, hazardous and solid waste, administrative law and the Endangered Species Act.
