Education
A rendering of the new MS/HS lobby. Photo Credit: NSCSD
A rendering of proposed improvements to the school library. Photo Credit: NSCSD
A rendering of the PQ library. Photo Credit: NSCSD
A rendering of the new MS/HS lobby. Photo Credit: NSCSD
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By Halston Media Staff
Published March 14, 2025 at 7:00 AM
NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - The North Salem Central School District unveiled a comprehensive capital improvement plan at the Feb. 26 Board of Education meeting. The proposal addresses aging infrastructure while transforming underutilized spaces into modern learning environments across all district facilities.
The $24.51 million bond proposal represents more than a year of careful analysis and planning by the district's Facilities Committee, which conducted thorough assessments of both school buildings and the bus garage. Their work began after the 2023 state-mandated Building Condition Survey identified 300 areas requiring attention, many involving original building systems that have reached the end of their useful lives. The facilities plan reflects a balanced approach, focusing on three core principles: creating healthy, relevant learning environments, protecting the community's investment in school infrastructure, and making financially responsible decisions that benefit all stakeholders.
The most visible change would be a new entrance facade at the Middle School/High School, enhancing security and the building's overall appearance. The lobby will be transformed with new seating and workspace areas. The middle school commons will be reimagined with new lighting, ceilings, floors, and, most notably, flexible seating to provide adaptable learning spaces for students and classes. An unused balcony above the main entrance will be enclosed for additional conference and workspaces. The library renovation will provide students with flexible seating options alongside quiet meeting and study spaces to create collaborative learning zones.
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The driveway and parking lots will be upgraded and redesigned to improve student driver safety and parking capacity. Critical infrastructure improvements include the building roof and electrical systems. Classroom air ventilators will also be repaired or replaced to improve classroom air quality and energy efficiency.
At Pequenakonck Elementary School, the plan addresses fundamental infrastructure needs while creating more adaptable learning environments. Original windows will be replaced, and heating and ventilation systems will be updated to improve air quality and energy efficiency. Additional areas selected for repairs and upgrades include the campus driveway, exterior drainage, and the roof. The enhanced library will provide flexible learning spaces. The multipurpose room will be reimagined with an elevated platform, ideal for presentations, small groups, and community meetings.
The district's transportation fleet requires a reliable home base. The proposed garage improvements include driveway and paving upgrades alongside equipment modernization to ensure continued safe and dependable service for student transportation.
The capital project proposal will be presented for community voting on May 20 as Proposition #2. This critical investment of $24.51 million has the potential to modernize North Salem's school infrastructure to create a dynamic learning environment equipped to support our students for future success.
Article courtesy of North Salem Central School District.
