Lifting Students Up!
The Wilbur Repp Tech Center—A CTE Addition
Wilbur Repp had a heart for teaching, and his lifelong dedication to students will soon have a lasting impact on Selah and its learners.
It’s been more than four years since Repp’s passing, yet the longtime educator and 1953 Selah High School graduate continues to shape the future of Selah’s students. By designating funds for a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) addition at Selah High School, Repp is ensuring students gain the skills needed to succeed—no matter what path they choose after graduation.
Even while battling cancer, Repp left a timeless gift to the Selah School District, dedicating a significant portion of his estate as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to providing students with real-world opportunities. His vision aligns perfectly with the District’s expanding career and technical education program, which most high school students experience over the course of their four years as a component of graduation requirements. The program provides hands-on learning of 21st-century skills and a selection of pathways to in-demand careers.
“This was an incredible gift from a truly special man,” said Scacco. “He wanted to give back to the community he grew up in and believed every student should have real-world opportunities. He saw too many students falling through the cracks, and the idea of a CTE center was his way of giving learners hands-on skills to create meaningful career pathways. Some trades don’t require a college education, but no matter the path, the goal is to provide students with the tools to make the best choices for themselves before they leave us.”
With Repp’s gift, the District will construct the fittingly named Wilbur Repp Tech Center, a state-of-the-art CTE facility integrated into the high school campus. Groundbreaking is scheduled for June 2026, with completion targeted for April 2027. The new complex will go beyond standard classrooms, providing modern, well-equipped learning spaces for agriculture, mechanics, construction, metalwork, machinery, and welding, to name a few areas.
Repp’s generosity extends beyond Selah. He also contributed a similar gift to the Kent School District, where he taught for 25 years, establishing an endowment supporting vocational training. Ultimately, Repp’s impact on students is immeasurable.
The cost of Selah’s CTE center is estimated at $4,927,427. Repp’s initial donation of $3.65 million—which has since grown—will cover nearly the entire cost, with $4 million available to fund the project. The remainder will be covered by state assistance and projected District Capital Fund dollars. No operational funds will be used. Additionally, the facility is being designed to integrate seamlessly with future Selah High School facility plans, ensuring a lasting impact for decades.
A humble man whose intention in life was to lift others quietly, without seeking recognition, Repp consistently sought ways to mentor and inspire students throughout his career. Now, his spirit will live on in his hometown, providing students the tools, skills, and confidence to build their futures—just as he envisioned.
"Wilbur Repp’s generosity reflects the very best of our community," said McKay. "He cared deeply about Selah and its students, and wanted to ensure every learner had the chance to explore their talents, gain real-world skills, and prepare for meaningful careers. The Wilbur Repp Tech Center will carry his spirit forward, creating opportunities for generations of students for years to come.”
The future of Selah starts with students. With two upcoming capital projects set to break ground in the new year, the Selah School District continues to invest in its future to support learning, strengthen community, and shape tomorrow.
The architectural drawings of the Wilbur Repp Tech Center addition.
Architectural renderings of the William Repp CTE addition.