With only a few months until Lowell Elementary’s demolition in February, the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD) is making use of the building for training exercises. This provides an excellent opportunity for firefighters to conduct building searches and run mock drills in a realistic environment.

In addition to TFD, Northwest Disaster Search Dogs will also utilize the space for training, allowing the dogs to sharpen their skills in real-world conditions, making them more effective in the field.

This partnership continues the district’s collaboration with local first responders, similar to what was done during the construction project at Fawcett Elementary.

Lowell is one of 8 school replacements or historic renovations funded by the $535 million school construction bond voters passed in 2020. Lowell staff and students will continue to use the Westend swing site for the next two school years, during construction of their new school. The existing Lowell building will be demolished in February, with construction of the new school slated from 2025 to 2026.