Credit: Abington School District.
Students in Abington School District may be getting a new school.
The Abington School District Board of Directors voted unanimously at its Jan. 28 meeting to put a $285 million Abington Middle School investment plan on the ballot during the primary election.
On May 20, Abington Township and Borough of Rockledge residents will conduct a vote and, if approved, would provide funding for the construction of the new school building.
“Our community made it clear that they want a voice in this decision that impacts public education and local tax rates,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeffrey S. Fecher. “This is why we are once again turning to our community to have a say in this critical investment in the future of our Middle School through a referendum. The decision is now in the hands of residents in Abington Township and the Borough of Rockledge when they vote at the polls on May 20th.”
Residents also can provide their input online before the vote.
According to the plan, the new school would be a more modern environment and would feature a “small school community” through grade-specific classrooms. The new building would improve accessibility, safety, and security, according to project details. The new building also will reduce energy use and maintenance costs.
If approved, the renovation project would mean relocating students and teachers to areas of the building not under construction, or using flexible classrooms during construction, meaning students would be able to attend classes in the current middle school until the new one is completed.
“We are grateful to our community for their continued participation in this process,” Fecher said. “The valuable feedback we received on the proposed options for Abington Middle School helped guide our decision-making process. The proposed plan meets the needs of our students and staff, reflects our community’s priorities, and provides long-term value.”
Some features of the new school include wider hallways and staircases, brighter classrooms, improved airflow and ventilation, common areas and large group spaces.
The new school is part of Abington’s “One ASD, One Future” plan.
“The design of the new school will involve teachers, staff, parents and guardians, students and the community to reflect the community’s values and educational goals,” it states on the plan’s website.
