On Tuesday, December 17, the Alden Central School District celebrated the passing of its $48 million capital project, marking a significant step forward for the district’s facilities and student-focused improvements. The project, approved by community vote, encompasses critical infrastructure upgrades and enhancements to spaces students use daily, reflecting Alden’s ongoing commitment to providing top-tier educational environments.
Superintendent Adam Stoltman expressed his gratitude for the community’s support, noting the strong turnout of nearly 600 voters. “The results of this capital project reinforce the dedication our taxpayers and residents have to the school and the incredible education and opportunities we provide for our students,” Stoltman shared. He emphasized the importance of the community’s role in shaping the project through years of collaboration, from building condition surveys to committee meetings.
The approved upgrades address a wide range of needs. Essential infrastructure work, such as roof replacements, parking lot renovations, and updates to fire alarms and boiler systems, ensures the safety and functionality of the district’s buildings for years to come. These behind-the-scenes improvements, some targeting systems over 50 years old, are crucial for maintaining operations and avoiding costly emergency repairs.
Beyond infrastructure, the project includes enhancements that will directly impact students’ daily experiences. The primary school playground will be updated to better serve all students, including those in the district’s universal pre-K program. At the intermediate school, the cafeteria and serving lines will be modernized to improve functionality and aesthetics, while the middle school library will undergo a complete overhaul, transforming it into a contemporary, engaging space for learning.
“These are spaces where students spend much of their time,” Stoltman said. “Making sure they’re safe, comfortable, and inspiring is a top priority. While kids might not notice a new roof or fire alarms, they’ll definitely feel the difference in a renovated cafeteria, library, or playground.”
The project, carefully designed with community feedback, balances immediate needs with long-term goals. Importantly, it will be completed without additional tax burdens on residents, thanks to strategic use of district reserve funds set aside for capital improvements. “We’ve planned carefully to ensure this project doesn’t raise taxes,” Stoltman explained. “This is about providing for our students without placing extra financial strain on our community.”
As work begins in the summer of 2025, starting with the replacement of the primary school roof, the district looks forward to the impact these upgrades will have. Stoltman highlighted the significance of the community’s involvement throughout the process, extending his appreciation to the committees and teams that shaped the vision for the project. “This wasn’t something put together overnight,” he said. “It reflects years of effort and a shared commitment to ensuring our schools are ready for the future.”
The passage of this capital project underscores the trust and partnership between the Alden Central School District and its community. With these updates, Alden’s schools are poised to provide safe, modern, and inspiring spaces for students to learn and grow for decades to come.
