Case Study: West Plains School District achieves broad community support for a new high school with ThoughtExchange

Lessons learned from West Plains School District’s facilities Thoughtexchange

West Plains School District in Missouri faced overcrowding and a need for more classroom space, and was exploring a new senior high school that would serve the district and neighboring communities. After a small phone poll proved insufficient, district leaders sought broader, more meaningful community input to shape and inform a tax levy proposal.

They partnered with Thoughtexchange to engage hundreds of residents—501 participants who contributed 1,372 thoughts and 27,833 stars—uncovering strong, shared priorities (including a performing arts venue) and several quick-win facility fixes. A second exchange plus five open forums confirmed overwhelming support (92 of 100 attendees) for building a new high school, allowing the district to refine its levy proposal, move toward the ballot more confidently, and build community trust.

West Plains School District

Lana Snodgras

Director Of Communications