Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) marked the start of work at the new Illahee Middle School June 15 with a groundbreaking celebration.

The current middle school building was built in 1971 and is the last of eight aging school district schools to be rebuilt under the second phase of a school construction bond. The rebuild will address overcrowding and deteriorating facilities, according to FWPS.

The new school is estimated to be completed after winter break in 2025. Until then, students and staff will use a temporary offsite location, according to FWPS. The design of the school will follow modern trends in school design emphasizing security. It will have a fully enclosed perimeter, more security cameras and a secure entry vestibule that connects to the main office, according to FWPS.