Changes Coming to the Alden Central School District

(Avery Stahl/WACS Primary School Reporter)

Safe and Sound: Improving Our Primary School

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this standard, regular renovations are necessary, addressing issues such as leaky roofs, playground accessibility, outdated fire alarms, clocks, and phones.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 The playground's lack of accessibility for all students, coupled with outdated equipment, has highlighted the need for significant upgrades.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.

(Morgan Enser/Middle School Reporter)

Enhancing Student Experience in the Intermediate & Middle School

Alden Central School District is set to embark on an exciting capital improvement project that will bring significant upgrades to the Intermediate and Middle Schools. With a total budget of approximately $45 million, this ambitious initiative is designed to enhance the safety, accessibility, and functionality of both schools—all with zero percent tax impact on the community. The vote for this project is scheduled for December 2024.

The capital project will address a range of essential needs, categorized as "Must Dos," "Highlights," and "Other Considerations." Both the Intermediate and Middle Schools will see crucial updates aimed at improving the daily experience for students and staff alike.

One of the top priorities for both schools is modernizing their technology systems, which include fire alarms, clocks, PA systems, elevators, and phones. These updates are essential for ensuring a safer, more efficient, and accessible school environment. These include the fire alarms, the clocks, the PA system, elevators, and phones. Updating these technologies will make the school safer, more accessible, and more efficient.

At the Intermediate School, the most highly recommended project is the renovation of the cafeteria and kitchen. These upgrades will focus on enhancing the serving lines and dining areas, as well as improving the overall workspace for the staff. With a new layout and updated equipment, food service workers will be able to operate more efficiently, providing students with a smoother and more enjoyable lunchtime experience.

The most highly recommended project is redoing the cafeteria and the kitchen. This aims to upgrade serving lines, eating areas, and overall increase the safety of the areas for both the students and the staff.

The Middle School is also set to undergo significant improvements, with the complete renovation of the library being one of the key projects. The updated library will feature flexible learning zones and incorporate modern technology, creating a space that supports a wide variety of academic activities.

“Our main focus through this whole process has been how can these improvements help our students,” says Ms.Disalvo, Alden Middle School's librarian. “The library is a shared space. It's a space that everyone uses for a lot of reasons, so we’re really focusing on trying to get some flexible space for the students to come in.”

The capital project also includes important updates to the Middle School’s safety infrastructure, such as enhanced safety cameras and updated accessibility features. These changes will contribute to creating a more secure and supportive environment for all students.

If approved, construction is expected to begin in 2026 and wrap up by 2032. With no additional tax burden on the community, the district encourages everyone to participate in the upcoming vote to help bring these much-needed improvements to fruition.

In summary, the Alden Intermediate and Middle School capital improvement project represents a vital investment in the future of education. By addressing key areas such as technology, safety, and learning spaces, the project will ensure that both schools remain safe, inclusive, and effective environments for students and staff.

(Paige LaVarnway/High School Reporter)

Upgrading Essential Systems at Alden High School

Alden Central School District is moving forward with an essential capital improvement project aimed at addressing concerns and improving infrastructure across its schools, including Alden High School. The $45 million project, which spans the entire district, will have a zero percent tax impact, making it a significant yet community-friendly initiative. The vote for this project is set for December 2024.

At Alden High School, several "Must Do" projects are prioritized to modernize the school’s infrastructure. Key updates include modernizing critical systems such as clocks, the PA system, and phones. These systems have become outdated, and the capital project aims to bring them up to date, ensuring smoother communication throughout the building.

Another important upgrade involves the school's elevators. The project will focus on modernizing and upgrading old components to enhance safety and reliability for all users.

In terms of safety, upgrading the fire alarm system is a top priority. The project will replace the fire alarm system, including main control units, devices, and wiring, to ensure the safety of students in the event of a real emergency.

Mr. Ryan, Alden High School's principal, highlighted some of the pressing infrastructure issues: “Since I've been here for the past 20 years, our clock system is not in sync. So, it could be three minutes one way in this room and three minutes the other way in that room. And that can create chaos because, you know, the teacher might be letting this class out when it's really not that time.”

The capital improvement project is expected to begin in 2026, with completion set for 2032. Community members are encouraged to participate in the December 2024 vote to ensure these essential upgrades are funded and implemented, with no additional tax burden on the public.

In summary, Alden High School will see vital improvements in infrastructure, safety, and facilities as part of the district’s $45 million capital project. By updating technology and safety systems, the project will ensure the school remains a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for both students and staff.

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