Abington School Board provides updates on new Middle School design, construction

At the recent Abington School Board meeting, district officials provided an update on the ongoing design process for the new middle school. 

The project, which began schematic design in July 2025, has been progressing through detailed planning, community input, and site analysis.

The district has held biweekly meetings with staff and administrators, conducted stakeholder and end-user sessions, and engaged neighbors in community meetings. 

Site Planning and Buildable Area

The middle school site is located in a tightly built area bordered by Susuana Road, Highland Avenue, and the existing district administration building and high school. Setbacks include 300 feet from neighboring backyards and 75 feet within district property, leaving a centrally located buildable zone. The new school will occupy the current tennis courts and track area, while preserving ball fields and play areas around the site perimeter.

Traffic and site design planning are key priorities. The layout will:

• Maintain existing playing fields while relocating some baseball, soccer, and tennis courts.
• Utilize existing access points from Highland Avenue and Susuana Road.
• Include a boulevard from Susquhanna Road to the school entrance, flanked by parking.
• Implement stormwater management systems both above and below ground.
• Incorporate outdoor learning spaces.

Traffic flow will separate parent drop-off and bus loops, with long stacking lanes inside the site to reduce congestion on surrounding streets. An ongoing traffic study will guide final adjustments.

Building Design

The schematic building design uses a modular “Lego block” approach with four learning clusters for grades 6–8. Each cluster supports a student team, creating smaller learning communities within the larger school. Highlights include:

• Central cafeteria and kitchen serving full grade levels.
• STEM and specials classrooms located centrally.
• Athletics, performing arts, and music spaces positioned near outdoor fields.
• A central corridor, or “main street,” connecting all areas to facilitate smooth student flow.
• Multiple entrances and exits designed to serve approximately 2,000 students efficiently.

Approvals and Next Steps

The district is conducting a code and zoning review and has completed a preliminary sketch review with Abington Township. The formal land development approval process is expected to take 9 to 10 months. Key upcoming milestones include:

Around February: Planning Commission sketch review 

March: Preliminary land development submission 

March: Zoning hearing board application for variances 

March: NPDES conservation district submission 

Mechanical, plumbing, and electrical system designs are also in early development, including integration of a new boiler plant.

District officials emphasized that the project continues to prioritize community input, safety, sustainability, and student-centered learning spaces. Residents can expect further updates as design and approvals progress over the coming months.