Sept. 28, 2022
Dear Eldred Community Member: The Eldred Central School District is proposing facilities upgrades and renovations at George Ross Mackenzie Elementary School and Eldred Junior Senior High School. On Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022 voters will consider a “bond,” which is a loan paid back over time, like a home-improvement loan, to fund these improvements. It is important to note that this bond, if approved by voters, will NOT raise taxes. You are invited to learn more and offer comments during a Public Hearing this Thursday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. at Eldred Junior Senior High School’s gymnasium. The proposed improvements will support and expand students’ advancement in literacy, math, science, multimedia and sports. The improvements also will inspire students’ analytical thinking and problem-solving skills while enhancing communication, collaboration and innovation.
The amount to be borrowed through the bond is $12.04 million. The total project cost will be about $13,295,000, with the remainder coming from school district funds. Voting on Dec. 6 will take place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Highlights of the proposed improvements: Both Schools: Libraries will be renovated into global learning centers. These centers will propel our libraries to evolve into multipurpose areas to ensure that collaboration and communication are at the forefront of our students' academic growth. In addition, a “maker’s space” room will be created for independent learning, teacher-directed group learning or individual project learning. Such hands-on learning supports students’ creativity. George Ross Mackenzie Elementary School: A new roof will replace the leaky original roof, and new sidewalks will be installed. Eldred Junior Senior High School: There will be a new all-weather football field and track, and a concession stand will be constructed to add to fans’ enjoyment at events. The new field, which also will host soccer games and other competitions, will prevent game cancellations that have regularly occurred for years due to unsafe and deteriorating conditions. The athletic field’s restrooms will be renovated and expanded because they are aged and their capacity does not meet fans’ needs. In addition, seating will be added on the hill overlooking the football field and track.
The bond projects’ cost will not raise taxes because the funds will be borrowed only after two existing bonds are paid off in 2025. The payments will be spread over 17 years, with the first payment due in June 2026. Construction would start in 2024 and be completed in 2026.
We invite you to watch an informational video and learn more at eldred.k12.ny.us. We look forward to seeing you at Thursday’s Public Hearing at 6:30 p.m. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Traci Ferreira, Superintendent
Dr. John Morgano, Retired Superintendent and Bond Consultant