RIVER VALE—Construction and renovations at River Vale schools have been underway this summer, as the district modernizes facilities to improve comfort and efficiency and bolster educational opportunities for students in grades pre-K through eight.
All projects stem from the 2021 bond referendum approved by River Vale voters.
Meanwhile, the district says it has faced supply chain delays similar to those affecting construction nationwide.
“These issues have had the most impact on Roberge Elementary, where extensive interior renovations are underway,” the district told Pascack Press through its strategic consultant, Laura Bishop Communications, on Aug. 22.
Despite the challenges, River Vale Public Schools says it expects Roberge to open along with the district’s other two schools on Sept. 12, the first day of school.
However, the district said it is “taking steps to prepare in the unlikely event that the building cannot open because of factors beyond its control.”
The statement says in part, “River Vale has developed a thoughtful contingency plan that would ensure Roberge students and staff begin the school year in other district buildings. The short-term alternative space, if needed, would provide students and staff with a secure, welcoming setting.”
Quoting superintendent Melissa Signore, the statement adds, “Supply chain issues have affected individuals, businesses and communities since we began to emerge from the pandemic last year. With that in mind, we proactively created a contingency plan that will not interrupt our students’ education.”
Signore added, “We want to assure every family that River Vale students will start school on schedule, in person, and with their teacher and classmates so they can immediately begin to build a classroom community in a safe, welcoming setting. All special services will be available as well.”
Signore sent a letter to staff and parents on Aug. 22 to inform the school community of the potential construction delays – especially those taking place inside Roberge Elementary School.
Work at Holdrum Middle School is focused on a building addition, and Woodside Elementary School is receiving a new roof and rooftop equipment.
The district has been working to counter delays by expediting shipping on equipment and coordinating with the construction site manager to arrange extra shifts for available workers.
Signore’s letter noted that the district will closely monitor construction progress and update the school community through email on Sept. 1.
The district says on its projects web portal that it is grateful for the community’s support in the April 20, 2021 bond referendum.
“The vote authorized major improvements for our buildings, including air conditioning, new roofs, classroom upgrades and an addition at Holdrum Middle School that will provide more instructional space, move lockers out of classrooms and into hallways, and add a Wellness Center.”
Most importantly, it says, the referendum process secured state aid that will cover a significant portion of the cost of improvements.
“Now, we’re working on the projects that will enhance the daily school experience for students and staff. Check this website for updates on construction, which will take place in phases through 2024.”
Contractor bids due by mid-January 2022 were solicited for major school construction projects included in River Vale’s approved $42.5 million bond referendum, including an addition to the middle school, renovations and HVAC replacement at two elementary schools and entrance canopy upgrades at all three district schools.
Homeowners will average an extra $123 annually in property taxes over the 25-year bond term.