Alden’s schools have long been committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and comfortable environment for students and staff. To maintain this standard, regular renovations are necessary, addressing issues such as leaky roofs, playground accessibility, outdated fire alarms, clocks, and phones. These improvements are crucial for maintaining a productive and well-maintained school environment.
The upcoming capital project aims to tackle these issues with a budget of approximately $45 million across all Alden schools. Voting on the project will take place in December 2024. Notably, the project is designed to have zero percent tax impact, making community participation in the vote essential.
One of the most pressing concerns is the current state of the playground. The playground’s lack of accessibility for all students, coupled with outdated equipment, has highlighted the need for significant upgrades. “One of the biggest areas of concern that we have around here is the current playground. Its lack of accessibility to all of our students, along with some of the outdatedness of the equipment and the age appropriateness of some of the equipment,” said Mr. Stepnick, the principal of Alden Primary School.
During a visit to the playground, students shared their thoughts on potential improvements. When asked if they liked playing on the playground, responses were overwhelmingly positive. “Yes. Yes. Of course, who wouldn’t?” said one student, while another mentioned, “I would feel that I would always want to go on it. I’m happy. I would feel perfect. Better than before.”
The playground’s surface is another significant issue. “We currently have a pebble surface, which obviously is not the softest for our students to fall on. We do have some occasional injuries with students wiping out and skinning their knees out there,” Stepnick said. The proposed improvements include installing a softer, rubberized or mulch surface and ensuring handicap access throughout the playground. “Students in wheelchairs need to be able to traverse through the playground to make it to new areas. And currently, they don’t have that ability,” he added.
In addition to playground upgrades, the primary school roof is in dire need of renovation due to persistent leaks.
Some students were unaware of the leaks, but others had noticed them. “Oh yeah, yeah, yeah I’ve seen them. There are leaks in the roof and they sometimes let water through. And there’s stains,” one student observed. The leaks have caused visible damage, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.
These renovations will not only enhance the physical infrastructure of the schools but also improve the overall learning environment for both students and teachers. The planned upgrades will address essential safety concerns, ensure inclusivity, and provide a more comfortable space for everyone.
The capital project’s zero percent tax impact is a critical factor for the community to consider. It ensures that the necessary improvements can be made without placing an additional financial burden on residents, as it draws on district reserves specifically created for this purpose. Community involvement in the December 2024 vote is crucial to the project’s success.
As the voting date approaches, Alden schools are urging all community members to participate in the decision-making process. The proposed renovations are vital for maintaining a high standard of education and safety, ensuring that Alden’s schools remain a beacon of excellence.
In summary, the $45 million capital project represents a significant investment in the future of Alden’s schools. By addressing urgent issues such as playground accessibility, leaky roofs, and outdated equipment, the project aims to create a safer, more inclusive, and more comfortable environment for all students and staff.
