Several renovation projects that began in the summer have wrapped-up in recent weeks, preparing schools for winter weather while also providing new and improved recreation spaces for students at Lawrence and Sullivan schools.
With funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) III Fund, the following projects were completed between July and October:
Donahue School received a new sign, new soffit and fascia (the metal siding that covers building overhangs), and new window systems. The window screens are vandal-proof and obscure the view into the school from the outside while allowing ample light to come in. The windows are well-sealed for the cold of winter and heat of summer, while opening a safe amount to provide fresh air during temperate months.
Lawrence School received new windows that comply with requirements for historical buildings, including replacing the frosted yellow glass windows in the gymnasium with clear glass that allows for substantially more light to enter. Lawrence’s main entrance was repaved with new railings installed. Lawrence also has a new accessible playground, covered in detail here.
McMahon School received the same style of new windows as Donahue School received, as well as new external doors, soffit, and fascia. The gymnasium and cafeteria received new, large-scale windows to allow in ample lighting.
Sullivan School has a new basketball pavilion, creating an age-appropriate recreation space for middle school students. Additionally, a weight room has been created to provide students with a variety of outlets for finding calm and focus through exercise.
Dean School
has two new, state-of-the-art computerized boilers that work together as a system: When one boiler reaches 50% of its heating capacity, the other boiler automatically kicks on so both boilers each ultimately run at only 25%. This automated load sharing helps the heating system operate efficiently, while preserving the life expectancy of both.