Embedded Files
Securing Our Future
Securing Our Future
November 8, 2022
November 8, 2022
Bond funding finances big projects at a reduced cost to local taxpayers thanks to state aid. Our bond proposal includes a mix of critical repairs and upgrades to improve safety and better serve current and future students and the community.
All of the proposed projects qualify for state aid, but that aid can only be given to the district if voters approve the Nov. 8 bond referendum.
Safety and Security
Safety and Security
Not all school safety and security systems are created equally. Features that have become standard in modern and renovated schools are missing from our buildings, but that can change! A voter approved bond referendum would allow us to make important safety and security updates to every classroom at both Tabernacle Elementary School (TES) and the Kenneth R. Olson Middle School (OMS).
New hardware added to classroom doors would allow teachers to more safely and efficiently go into lockdown mode quickly in the case of an intruder. Building-wide intruder alarm systems would also be upgraded, along with a complete replacement of exterior door access controls, which allow visitors into the buildings. This system would also ensure that only authorized personnel can access the building during authorized times. New, more advanced security systems would include better cameras to capture clearer videos across more areas.
Additional safety-related buildings systems would also be upgraded, including sophisticated new fire alarm systems that would be installed at both schools. These new alarms would decrease critical response time by pinpointing where the exact issue is in the building. The public address and clock systems in each school would also be upgraded to a digital system which provides greater access to the system by administrators, allowing for clear communications during an emergency situation.
Building and Systems Upgrades
Building and Systems Upgrades
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Tabernacle’s schools are well-maintained, but nothing stops the march of time. HVAC systems were designed for 25 years but have lasted for 40 years. In addition to reducing the risk of costly, pop-up repairs, each school’s new HVAC system would be more cost efficient and produce better air quality.
As part of a fiscally responsible strategy, the district applied for and was awarded a $3.4 million grant through New Jersey Clean Energy Program, which will cover about 35% of the HVAC project. A voter-approved bond referendum would take care of the balance of HVAC replacements in both schools.
The HVAC units currently in classrooms are loud and bulky. New units would be quieter, take up less space, filter out more air particles, and more evenly distribute heating and cooling air. Air conditioning would also be added to the gym at OMS, making everyday classes and special events more comfortable and enjoyable.
The capacity and efficiency of the buildings' electrical systems are particularly critical with the increased use of computers and other electronic devices today, compared to several decades ago when these existing electrical systems were originally installed. Replacements would include new switchboards, panel boards and transformers – all of which are at the end of their useful life cycle.
Roofing
Roofing
The roof at OMS is more than 20 years old and out of warranty, which means the district must pay for any leaks or repairs out of the regular operating budget. The number of leaks in the roof are only growing every year.
A new roof, funded through an approved referendum, would be three times more insulating, resulting in energy cost savings almost immediately. The proposed new roofing system would be eligible for a 30-year warranty.
Bond borrowing is a fiscally responsible way to make these necessary improvements by generating upfront funding so we can get the work completed sooner rather than later. It will also allow us to spread out the costs of the projects over time, just like how a homeowner would use a home equity loan to make improvements.
Accessibility
Accessibility
Voter approval on Nov. 8 also means our buildings would be made more ADA accessible to students, staff and visitors.
Rounded doorknobs would be replaced with easier to grip handles and doors would be hung to ensure maximum clearance.
Our students and staff deserve to have the accommodations needed for their success.
Page updated
Report abuse