The possibility of expanding local schools will be on the voting ballot at the Floral Park-Bellerose School District bond referendum vote on Tuesday, Oct. 23. The district has plans to expand and renovate Floral Park-Bellerose and John Lewis Childs elementary schools due to the ever-growing educational landscape.
“This is a very exciting time for our school district and our community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Dantona. “An approved bond will fund the work needed to establish an equitable 21st century learning environment for all students in both of our schools and provide the space needed to meet the needs of our students now and into the future.”
The total cost of the proposed expansion and renovation is $17.5 million. The district plans to offset the cost to taxpayers by utilizing several funding sources including: $2.3 million in community-approved capital reserve funds, $432,512 in Smart Schools Bond Act funds, New York State Building Aid and long-term borrowing for the remaining $14.7 million.
The average tax increase to homeowners would be approximately $98 a year or $8.17 a month.
The proposed scope of work was determined based upon current and future enrollment projections, increased programs and the commitment of the board of education and administration to provide equitable and state-of-the-art expansion opportunities for all students.
Some of the expansion and renovation plans for Floral Park-Bellerose includes eight additional classrooms to expand instructional opportunities. The creation of an art studio, state-of-the-art STEAM lab, a new computer and technology lab, general education classrooms, an increase in space for special education and an auxiliary cafeteria are expected.
John Lewis Childs plans to construct 10 additional classrooms and has plans to include an increase in space for music programs, the creation of a new ENL classroom, renovations of faculty bathrooms and consolidate office space among other plans.
All community residents are encouraged to vote on Tuesday, Oct. 23. Voting will take place at both elementary schools from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information, visit the district’s website at www.fpbsd.org
