Education tops many parents’ lists of important investments in their children’s lives. We rely on our school district to provide great teachers and staff as well as safe conditions and up-to-date tools for our children to use. Earlier this week, the Westfield School Board approved funding for refurbishment of two local Westfield middle schools: Roosevelt and Edison.
What Will the Westfield School Board Approved Funding Take Care of?
Click here for an instant “No Strings Attached” valuation of your home.
The Westfield School Board approved funding of $4 million to modernize and refurbish the auditoriums at both Roosevelt Intermediate and Edison Intermediate. What will the money go towards? George Duthie, the Architect, proposed a new sound system, LED lights and modern computer equipment in addition to new, more comfortable seating. They expect to send the proposal out to bid with local contractors on December 22nd. Once all bids are in, the Board of Education will examine each bid. A final decision isn’t expected until early February next year.
Other News Discussed at BOE Meeting
In addition to the funding approval, a couple of other news items were discussed at Tuesday’s meeting. Westfield Public Schools received accolades for their business savvy. First, they saved taxpayer money by refinancing bonds. Then, they revamped the cafeteria system to be more efficient. Finally, they stayed on top of maintenance for each school. Roof replacement ended up costing $3 million less than expected. That translates to less money borrowed from approved bonds.
Previously, the BOE discussed adding solar panels to some Westfield schools. No one expected that planning would take this long. Even so, we should see completion next April rather than later this month. Also, middle and high school cafeterias should receive new equipment soon. After this year’s Presidential election, talk turned to a possible change in future Westfield school use as polling places. In November, schools hired two local off-duty policemen for added security. Finally, a dialogue began in regards to full day kindergarten. However, this will be examined further in the future.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes