Superintendent Update as of November 12, 2024
Dear families and community members,
As stewards of our schools, we are entrusted with maintaining nearly 1.4 million square feet of facilities to ensure they remain safe, adaptable, accessible, and future-ready for our students, staff, and community. This Capital Project initiative will enable us to create sustainable, modern spaces that prioritize safety, inclusivity, accessibility, and indoor air quality that enhances educational excellence, with NO ADDITIONAL TAX IMPACT on our residents.
On December 10, 2024, Elmira City School District residents will have the opportunity to vote on a $139 million Capital Improvement Project aimed at enhancing learning environments, athletic facilities, and infrastructure across the district, all with
NO ADDITIONAL TAX IMPACT.
>>You can learn more about the 2024 Capital Improvement Project by clicking here.
This project addresses critical health, safety, and accessibility needs, upgrading outdated systems and promoting sustainable, future-ready facilities that will benefit students, staff, and the community for years to come. Major improvements include classroom and athletic facility renovations, energy-efficient upgrades, and technology enhancements at Elmira High School, Ernie Davis Academy, Broadway, all elementary schools, and district maintenance facilities.
The project will focus on essential repairs, replacements, and upgrades to create inclusive and adaptable learning environments that meet the needs of today’s students while preparing them for tomorrow’s challenges. Maintaining the integrity of our facilities is paramount as we ensure these spaces are welcoming and supportive for all. Project highlights include the following:
Elmira High School: Extensive upgrades will transform instructional and athletic facilities, including exterior window and door replacements, masonry restoration, mechanical and electrical system upgrades, and reconfigurations of pool and gym areas. Enhancements to the library, classrooms, and cafeteria will create dynamic, accessible spaces that support student success.
Ernie Davis Academy: Planned improvements include tennis court reconstruction, classroom upgrades, gym and theater renovations, and storm drainage and electrical upgrades.
Broadway Academy & Broadway Elementary: Enhancements will provide safe, engaging spaces, including upgraded outdoor play areas, classroom and cafeteria renovations, building-wide cooling, and accessible learning environments for all students.
Elementary Schools (Beecher, Hendy, Parley Coburn, Diven, Fassett, Pine City, and Riverside): Essential upgrades will support our youngest learners with masonry restoration, boiler replacements, expanded playgrounds, and building-wide cooling.
Bus Garage & Maintenance Facilities: Upgrades will prepare these facilities for electric buses, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and responsible future planning.
These enhancements, supported through strategic financial planning and state aid, will ensure safe, adaptable, and modern spaces that foster academic, athletic, and creative excellence for Elmira’s students. By voting in favor of this initiative, the community can invest in resilient, inclusive school facilities without increasing taxes, helping secure a brighter future for all students in Elmira.
The Elmira City School District personally extends their gratitude for your continued support of our schools. We want to put our students on a path to be the best they can be. Improving our facilities and instructional programming through this capital project is an important step in creating that path.
Sincerely,
Hillary J. Austin
Superintendent of Schools
Elmira City School District