Improvements for the Future

Research identified many projects. The Board of Education focused on the ones that had the best payoff for future educational outcomes, future budget efficiencies, and the advantage of state aid totaling $23.8M.

All Schools: More efficient heating, cooling and ventilation systems

VENTILATION, FRESH AIR, AND AIR QUALITY

West Deptford can upgrade heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to improve air quality and reduce energy/repair costs. Modern, efficient HVAC components would replace equipment that is not properly functioning, such as many failing "unit ventilators" (UVs) that play an important role in ventilation/filtration for individual classrooms. New boilers would more efficiently provide whole-building heat. Adding air conditioning to large-group spaces like the High School auditorium would improve the learning environment for our students.

ENERGY SAVING IMPROVEMENTS

At all schools, HVAC upgrades would make heating/cooling systems more energy- and cost-efficient. Building management systems could be programmed for peak performance and adjusted remotely if necessary. WD already used funding from a state incentive program to improve HVAC at Green-Fields Elementary School and saw significant savings -- $2,000 to $3,000 per month. Voter approval on March 11 would expand on this approach to address similar needs at all schools.

ALERT & COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

At all schools, out-of-date communications systems would be replaced. The current systems used for announcements, schedule bells, clock and phone systems have served beyond their expected lifespan and do not work well or consistently.

New systems offer advantages for emergency notifications, first responder contact and single-button access – all of which can save valuable time.

Additionally, upgrades to the electrical and fire alarm systems are proposed for the High School.

Rented equipment, energy losses and patch repairs are costing the school district thousands of dollars a month. Proposed upgrades and renovations address the need for a more stable operating budget.

WDHS and Community:

Performing Arts Spaces

(Learn more about performing arts space upgrades in this short video.)

More Music Rooms

Our award-winning music program desperately needs upgrades and additional space to continue supporting our talented students. Bond funding would allow us to provide state-of-the-art spaces purposefully designed to enhance the musical experience.

By bumping out the building behind the auditorium stage, a 4,000-square foot addition can include room for music instruction, practice and instrument storage. This would give our thriving and accomplished Band and Choir programs adequate space to nurture talent, foster creativity and develop skills in an inspiring environment.

Renovated Auditorium

The WDHS auditorium has served our community for almost 60 years. With worn seats and outdated features, it is ready for a complete refresh.

Key components of stage lighting and curtain are outdated and no longer function properly. The district must rent lighting for productions, costing about $6,000 per year. Seating shows its age with ripped upholstery and broken armrests.

Renovation would enhance the experience for performers and audience members during performances, assemblies and community events. The district would engage a specialized acoustical engineer for that renovation.

WDMS: 1970s-era Science Labs

Middle School science labs at West Deptford have remained largely unchanged since they were built in 1972. As science and technology continue to evolve, our students need modern, innovative learning environments that can keep pace with today’s educational standards.

The planned updates to the science labs will create more modern spaces designed to inspire curiosity and hands-on learning. These renovations will include updated equipment, flexible workstations, and enhanced safety features, ensuring our students have the tools they need to explore, experiment, and excel in STEM subjects. This upgrade is a crucial investment in our students’ future and their ability to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

(Learn how new science labs will inspire curiosity and promote hands-on learning in this brief video.)

WDHS and WDMS: Physical Education and Athletics

(Learn how renovated facilities would improve student experiences in this brief video.)

WDMS/WDHS Locker Rooms

Gym lockers rooms at the Middle School and High School have shower facilities and space for changing clothes – neither are used for those purposes because the academic schedule no longer spares time before and after Physical Education classes. Redesigning those areas would improve layout and storage capacity.

The High School’s original boys locker room has served students for decades. Improvements would add air conditioning, replace lockers and benches.

At the Middle School, the girls locker room was not renovated during the last major capital investment in WD buildings. Improvements proposed there include reconfiguration of space for better utilization; new lockers and benches; and cosmetic refreshment such as new paint and flooring.

Renovating these rooms would create more modern and functional spaces to meet the needs of today’s athletic programs.

WDHS Gymnasium

Our gym bleachers are outdated and need repair. Replacing them would improve accessibility and ensure a better experience for spectators and participants alike.

In addition, the gym dividers are no longer fully functional, and that limits the room's versatility for physical education classes, sports team practices and community events. Updates would provide modern, safe, and more adaptable facilities that can accommodate a wider range of activities. Six basketball backstops would be replaced and the ceiling would be scraped of its peeling material and repainted.

WDHS Tennis Court/Track

Our high school track and tennis courts are in need of resurfacing to ensure safety, performance and longevity. Over time, wear and tear has caused cracks, uneven surfaces, and drainage issues.

Upgrading these facilities would provide a safer environment for physical education classes, school sports teams, and community use. The track is due for a new, 5-inch base and top, while the tennis courts can gain new life with just a top coat. The chain link fence around that area would be replaced.

WDHS/WDMS: Roofing Issues

Maintaining a dry and functional learning environment is essential for our students and staff, just as protecting building integrity is important to taxpayers. That’s why the bond proposal seeks to solve roofing issues.

Several areas in the Middle School and High School experience roof leaks that lead to water damage in classrooms, hallways, and common areas. These leaks not only disrupt daily activities, but can also result in costly repairs if left unaddressed. Resolving these issues would protect our buildings from further damage and improve energy efficiency.

The solarium at Green-Fields Elementary School has roof panels that are cloudy, leaking and corroded. It’s a prime spot for energy loss. The bond proposal would provide funding to reglaze the glass panels and install new metal for this section of roof.

Green-Fields: Elevator and Playground

A new elevator would enhance accessibility and ensure that all students and staff can navigate Green-Fields Elementary School. That multi-level building poses challenges for individuals with mobility issues, impacting their ability to access classrooms and other vital areas.

Green-Fields would also benefit from the replacement of playground equipment that has deteriorated. Playground No. 1 near the end of Meadow Lane and Playground No. 3 that nears Redwood Lane would both be improved.