Aug 18, 2026 by Laurel Eberhart
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Redmond Proficiency Academy Opens Expanded Forest Building, Creating Exceptional Learning Spaces
New Six-Classroom Expansion Increases Capacity and Reinforces Downtown Redmond Campus
Redmond, OR — On August 15, 2026, Redmond Proficiency Academy (RPA) officially opened its newly renovated and expanded Forest Building, marking a transformative milestone in the school’s commitment to innovative, student-centered education. The expansion adds six state-of-the-art classrooms and approximately 9,000 square feet of learning space to RPA’s downtown campus, nearly doubling its instructional footprint.
A VISION REALIZED: THE FOREST BUILDING EXPANSION
The Forest Building expansion represents one of RPA’s most significant capital projects to date. Built within the bones of a historic structure dating back to the early 1940s—once a Shell gas station, Ford dealership, and the Printing Post—the reimagined space now features six new classrooms designed to serve students and create flexible, collaborative learning environments aligned with RPA’s innovative educational model.
A standout achievement of the project is the building’s internal conversion from a single-story to a two-story structure without extending above the existing roof line—a feat of engineering that maximizes the school’s downtown footprint while preserving the neighborhood’s character.
The new spaces include:
Construction took approximately one year while school remained in session, with careful coordination to maintain security, safety, and learning continuity. The project overcame significant challenges: working around an active school, transforming an aging structure to meet modern building codes, and completing work in a vibrant downtown location.
BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS AND COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
RPA extends deep gratitude to the design and construction teams whose exceptional work made this expansion possible: Alpine Abatement, 3C’s, Ashland Brothers, Ultra Quiet Floors, Baldwin Steel, Anderson Clark Interiors, Northwest Framing Systems, AM-1 Roofing, Energy Conservation Insulation, Bend Commercial Glass, Foster Creek, CCI, Pacific Painting, Superior Garage Floors, Fab Floors, White Star, American Sprinkler, Black Diamond Plumbing, Quality Heating, Gowdy Brothers, Tekneek, and Sunwest Builders. The school also recognizes its staff and students for their patience and flexibility during construction.
Funded through municipal bonds—marking RPA’s third bond issuance for capital improvements—the project reflects the school’s long-term commitment to providing exceptional learning environments and strengthening downtown Redmond’s community.
“This expansion embodies RPA’s vision of transforming educational spaces to inspire innovation and personalized learning,” said Dr. Jon Bullock, co-founder of RPA who served as Executive Director from 2012 until his retirement in August 2026. “The Forest Building now stands as a testament to what’s possible when we reimagine existing structures and invest in the future of public education. I’m excited to see our students and staff thrive in these new spaces.”
LEADERSHIP TRANSITION: CONTINUITY AND GROWTH
Alongside the celebration of the Forest Building opening, RPA marks a significant leadership transition. Dr. Jon Bullock, who founded the school 18 years ago and has guided its growth into a model for innovative public education, is transitioning from his role as Executive Director. Dr. Amy Kappel, who brings 12 years of dedicated service to RPA, assumes the position of Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer effective immediately.
In his new role as Acting Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Bullock will lead the Business Services Team to optimize operations, ensure fiscal health, and oversee the completion of all bond-funded capital projects on time, under budget, and in full compliance with bond covenants.
“I’m deeply honored to step into the role of Executive Director,” said Dr. Amy Kappel. “I look forward to honoring the visionary foundation established by Dr. Bullock 18 years ago while working alongside our talented educators, families, and students to lead RPA into its next chapter of growth.”
ABOUT RPA
Founded in 2008, Redmond Proficiency Academy is a public charter school serving students in grades 6-12. RPA is committed to revolutionizing education by respecting all students as unique individuals and empowering them to take ownership of their education and demonstrate their learning in ways that reflect their present and future goals.
RPA’s innovative model is built on:
ABOUT CHARTER SCHOOLS IN PUBLIC EDUCATION
Charter schools are publicly funded schools of choice that operate with increased autonomy in exchange for greater accountability. They are part of the public education system and serve to explore and develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Charter schools like RPA are charged with challenging the status quo, testing new educational models, and providing families with alternatives to traditional school structures.
RPA exemplifies the charter school mission by creating a learning environment that responds to 21st century needs—where critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and self-direction are cultivated. By moving beyond the traditional factory model of education, RPA prepares students for a world that demands innovation, adaptability, and authentic engagement with their own learning.
For more information, use this fact sheet or contact:
Laurel Eberhart
Communications, Marketing, and Outreach Manager
Redmond Proficiency Academy
(541) 598-6094
laurel_eberhart@rpacademy.org
Lili Wagner
Communications, Marketing, and Outreach Manager
Redmond Proficiency Academy
(541) 848-0189
lili_wagner@rpacademy.org
