Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District residents can learn more about the $34.5 million capital project proposition with no additional taxpayer increase at an upcoming public informational meeting. It’s scheduled to take place on Monday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. You can attend in-person at the District Office or watch via Zoom.
The 2024 capital project would be financed through a combination of retiring debt along with funds set aside in a capital reserve ($1 million). The district would receive building aid from New York state (76.3% of project expenditures). Building aid is received over a 15-year period, in line with debt payments.
If approved by voters, the capital project will:
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- Enhance safety and security.
- Elevate athletic and physical education spaces.
- Meet elementary and UPK playground guidelines.
- Improve aging non-instructional areas.
- Alleviate parking and exterior circulation issues.
- Replace or update facility HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and infrastructure for accessibility, health, and security.
“Through careful long-term planning and stakeholder input, we’re excited to propose projects that would benefit our students, staff, and community without additional funding from new tax dollars,” said Superintendent Peter Smith. “The 2024 Capital Project would address multiple problem areas while continuing to support our mission to provide students with a challenging educational experience in a safe and nurturing environment.”
The goal of the proposed project is to protect the community’s long-term investment in its schools by addressing necessary internal and external improvements to better support students.
“Upgrading school hallways and bathrooms leads to a healthier, safer, more welcoming environment that supports student well-being and enhances the overall educational experience. Renovated spaces with modern designs, adequate lighting, and aesthetically pleasing environments can make students and teachers feel more positive about their learning and working conditions,” said Jamesville Elementary School Principal Marcy Baker.
In addition to classroom instruction, Jamesville-DeWitt students also learn in gymnasiums, playgrounds, and on playing fields. By meeting UPK playground guidelines and improving athletic and physical education spaces, Jamesville-DeWitt would have safe and healthy learning facilities at its disposal.
“We anticipate the project will improve the accessibility and functionality of the Auxiliary Gym and Fitness Center. This will improve the experience for all of our students while providing a healthier environment for all,” said Department Chair and J-DHS PE Teacher Emily Rowles.
The district started offering Universal Pre-K in 2022. This necessitates the installation of new playground equipment at all three elementary schools to meet state requirements.
“Play is vital for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Having UPK-sized equipment on a playground is essential for several reasons, as it ensures accessibility, safety, and inclusivity for children of all abilities. This fosters empathy, social skills, and friendships, as children learn to cooperate and play together in a fun and engaging way,” said Baker.
The project also includes the addition of a new Varsity baseball complex at Lyndon Field. The work would include new bleachers, dugouts, backstop, an asphalt walking path, natural grass outfield, artificial turf infield and new perimeter fencing.
“A school with a reputation like J-D should have top of the line sport facilities across the board, for all sports. The baseball field situation has been less than ideal for years, so I’m thrilled to hear about a baseball complex,” said J-DHS parent Meg Sherman.
The project would also support continued efforts to strengthen safety in Jamesville-DeWitt schools. A few priority areas include the renovation of a secure vestibule entry at J-D High School and alleviating parking and exterior circulation issues at Tecumseh Elementary School.
The public referendum vote is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at J-D High School’s main gymnasium. Absentee ballots are available from the District Office and are due back by Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, by 4 p.m. For more information on absentee ballots, call (315) 445-8304.
You can view the complete project scope and renderings by visiting the district’s capital project webpage.