Shawn Brown, the Middletown Town Administrator, gave a talk to the Middletown Rotary Club on October 11, 2023 regarding the 2023 Middletown Middle-High School Bond Referendum. The presentation highlighted the importance of the upcoming bond referendum for constructing new, modern, and efficient educational facilities, benefiting all students and ensuring the future readiness of Middletown schools. Read more for the key points from his presentation:
Bond Referendum: On November 7th, there will be a special election for voters to decide on a $190 million bond. This bond is intended to fund the construction of a new middle-high school north of Gaudet Middle School. The construction is set to begin in Spring 2025, with the ribbon cutting in Fall 2027.
State Reimbursement: Middletown has an opportunity to receive a 55% state reimbursement on eligible expenses, which includes both principal and interest, for the estimated $190 million project cost.
Financial Implications: The cost of this project for the median Middletown homeowner is estimated to be around $2 a day.
Project Details: The bond will be used to create a new combined middle-high school serving approximately 1,100 students in grades 6-12. It will include 200,000 square feet of educational space with modern, flexible classrooms. Importantly, the construction will happen in a single phase without classroom interruptions and allows for future expansion.
Equitable Education: The new buildings are designed to benefit all students, including those with special needs and learning challenges, by providing more equitable educational facilities.
Investment in Education: The savings from having efficient and healthier schools will be reinvested into education rather than maintaining outdated facilities.
Flexible Classrooms: The design includes dynamic classrooms suitable for group work and collaboration, preparing students for college, the military, or careers.
New Auditorium: The project includes a new public auditorium, eliminating the need for school cafeterias to serve as substandard performance spaces.
Vocational Tech and Career Pathways: The new school will offer critical "hands-on" courses in addition to existing Career Pathways programs, giving students an advantage in the evolving world economy.
Athletic Facilities: The plan encompasses new athletic spaces and recreation areas, including a new gymnasium with two basketball courts and other sports facilities.
Cost-Effective Solution: Repairing existing schools would be more costly, as there are significant deficiencies, including asbestos remediation, air quality problems, and accessibility concerns.