The state Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) recently announced it would subsidize the construction of the new Vashon High School to the tune of $2.76 million.

Eric Gill, the school district’s capital projects manager, said the school district has been anticipating the money, as most school construction projects get state funds. However, said added, school officials were pleasantly surprised to learn they received nearly $90,000 more than expected.

“We’re ecstatic,” he said.

Gill said that in the construction budget, the project is fully funded by bond revenue, meaning the state money equates to extra funds. Board members may now chose to spend the money on additions to the project, such as enhancements to make the building more energy efficient or improve aesthetics. The money could be put toward phase two of the project, the track, field and gym that failed to be approved by voters, Gill said, or it could simply be put in a contingency fund for now.

“Because the project is fully funded, I think there’s some flexibility to spend it on other capital projects,” Gill said.

OSPI announced financial assistance to a total of 16 districts that are ready to begin or continue work on 22 new school buildings and school modernization projects. The funds total more than $213 million.