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 public will vote on the proposed project on Tuesday, December 3. Polls will be open 7 AM to 9 PM at the District Office. 

The project addresses several high-priority aging infrastructure components that were identified in the State-mandated Building Condition Survey (BCS). This report is developed by architects and engineers, documenting the status of facilities and is used to determine priorities and create strategic fiscal approaches to ensure the buildings are safe, operational, and up-to-date. The District’s Facilities Committee spent months working with its architects and engineers to study the BCS and design the project. 

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.  

“Student voice played a major role in some of the key projects in the proposed Capital Project,” shared Dr. Paul Spadaro, Superintendent of Schools. “By incorporating student feedback, we've ensured that the projects not only address our infrastructure needs but also reflect what matters most to our students.” 

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. 

“Rondout Valley Central School District has been honored with a ‘Best Communities for Music Education’ designation from the NAMM Foundation on seven different occasions, which speaks to the dedication and student involvement in the Arts,” noted Spadaro. 

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, as well as 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 at https://rondout.k12.ny.us/capitalproject2024.

The project was finalized at the October 7 Board of Education meeting and a public presentation on the project is scheduled for November 19 at 6 PM in the High School Auditorium.