In How Good of Shape Are Rancho Santa Margarita Schools?

Of the $822 million Capistrano Unified officials estimate they need to spend on renovations districtwide, schools in Rancho Santa Margarita need about 10 percent of that.

Tesoro High School, opened in 2001, has the most modernization needs, estimated to total $30 million. That would pay for items such as new lecture hall, courtyard and bleachers, among other amenities.

But all of Rancho Santa Margarita’s Capistrano Unified schools need some upgrading, the least of which is Wagon Wheel Elementary, coming in with $8.4 million worth of repairs and upgrades.

The figures are “hard” costs – the costs of actual construction in 2013 dollars. Capo officials are estimating another 20 percent in “soft costs” – engineering, legal costs, etc. – and another 10 percent for contingencies.

In all, the district only has about $44 million on hand to address the near 10-digit need. The Board of Trustees is expected in December to discuss starting a few projects and how to fund the rest.

To see exactly what is needed at your school, click through the links below:

• Arroyo Vista K-8 -- $7.3 million
• Las Flores Middle and Elementary schools – $14 million
• Tesoro High School – $30 million
• Tijeras Creek Elementary – $9 million
• Wagon Wheel Elementary – $8.4 million