Credit: Abington School District.
A construction project to build a new middle school in Abington School District at a cost of $285 million has a lot of moving parts. Many studies have to be conducted, funding has to be in line, and, of course, the project needs to be approved by a vote.
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.
Before that vote, Abington School District is taking measures to make sure everyone involved has the most up-to-date information about the potential project, and want to make residents aware of the financial impacts it will have on the community.
The informational event will take place on April 3, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Abington Middle School Little Theater lobby, 2056 Susquehanna Road.
This event will include building tours, details about facility challenges, the facilities planning process, the proposed plan, and its cost and tax impact, as well as voting information for the bond referendum on May 20.
There will also be opportunities to talk with District leadership to have any questions or concerns answered.
“As part of our commitment to sharing information with residents about the proposed $285 million investment plan to build a new Middle School, I’d like to invite you to an event on Thursday, April 3, where you can learn about this proposal,” said Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey S. Fecher.
“Please consider joining us,” Fecher added. “Our community helped shape this plan, and Abington Township and Borough of Rockledge voters will decide whether it moves forward when they cast their ballot on the bond referendum on Tuesday, May 20.”
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.
