Local News from Marbletown, Rochester, & Rosendale
The Rondout Valley Board of Education is proposing a Capital Project that focuses on security, safety, and the arts, with the goal of enhancing student programs and creating a secure learning environment throughout the District. By leveraging $4 million already set aside in a voter-approved Capital Reserve, strategically phasing-in bond repayment to replace retiring debt from previous projects, and applying New York State Building Aid reimbursement, the proposed $21.4 million project would not increase the local tax levy.
The project was finalized at the Oct. 7 Board of Education meeting and a public presentation on the project is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, in the High School Auditorium at RVHS, 122 Kyserike Road, Accord. The public will vote on the proposed project on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Polls will be open 7-9 a.m. at the District Office.
Key districtwide security and safety enhancements include replacing and upgrading the Intrusion Alarm Detection system and adding new security film to all windows and doors. Other safety upgrades include creating more secure building access at Kerhonkson Elementary School and the Middle School and replacing aged exit doors at Marbletown Elementary School.
The Rondout Valley High School Environmental Club advocated for installing dishwashing systems at all buildings that would allow the district to move to reusable cafeteria trays and eliminate the use of wasteful consumables.
The proposed project would include a High School complete auditorium and music suite upgrade, a band room renovation, and an addition of a vocal room to support the strong interest in the music program. Significant improvements to recreational fields and learning spaces are also planned. The proposal includes a new recreational field at Kerhonkson Elementary School, the addition of a multi-sport field and new basketball/pickleball court at Marbletown Elementary School, and a new scoreboard and upgraded dugouts at the Middle School. At the High School, the plan includes weight room and locker renovations, and a new STEM and E-Sports labs to support the delivery of modern curriculum for today’s learners.
A complete list of all proposed improvements, the project’s impact on local property taxes, and how to vote can be found on the District website at https://rondout.k12.ny.us/capitalproject2014.
