Shovels are ready to hit the ground to begin the multimillion-dollar renovation project that’s been in the works for years at the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.
The total price tag is more than $92 million, with $86.8 million of that coming from a capital bond that was overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2023. The balance, approximately $6 million, will come out of district reserves
And since the state is covering an estimated 53.6% of the bond, taxpayers will be on the hook for less than half of it.
“We would like to take a moment to express our gratitude for all of those who came out and voted,” stated the Board of Education in a letter. “The project will address the needs for infrastructure enhancements throughout the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns. Students will greatly benefit from these improvements and will be able to learn in an optimal academic setting.”
‘Building a Better Tomorrow’
Every school in the district will benefit from this wide-ranging project.
“It will bring value added to our community as a whole,” said Superintendent Raymond Sanchez. “Our motto is ‘Building a Better Tomorrow’, and that’s what we are aiming to do.”
During construction there will be a transition period, and Sanchez says he’s appreciative of everyone’s patience.
“We are supporting learning throughout the process, once things are done, they will be real points of pride for the community.” Sanchez adds, “We have heard anecdotally from many that parents, faculty and students are excited for the end result.”
Phase 1
Work is set to begin this July at the Winfield L. Morse School, Washington Irving intermediate School, and Sleepy Hollow High School and Middle School.
The middle school is getting two new science labs, but that work is separate from the project funded by the capital bond.
Morse is getting extensive upgrades and renovations, including new classrooms and improvements to existing ones.
The library, cafeteria, kitchen, security systems, lighting, fire alarms and IT systems will also get upgraded.
Plus, the HVAC and electrical systems will be improved, and they are removing fossil fuel systems so they can convert to cleaner and greener energy.
“Infrastructure needs were significant,” said Sanchez. “Classrooms are less than 600 square feet, today they would have to be 750 – 800 square feet. Morse School has had water leaks in the cafeteria.”
Across the board from pre-K through 5, the district is getting improved facilities to learn in, with larger classrooms that are also more appropriate for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) programs.
“We’re also getting better spaces dedicated to different types of learning, like music, art, and reading,” said Sanchez. “Social workers will also have better spaces, and overall, the buildings will be more aligned with the type of learning we are trying to provide.”
At Washington Irving, they’re doing major work on the multi-purpose sports field. That includes new bleachers and a grass seating area, a new turf field and asphalt walking track, new fencing, and improved drainage.
“We weren’t able to use the entire set of bleachers as structural engineers said they were deemed potentially unsafe,” Sanchez said. “This will also bring added value to the community as a whole.”
And down the road, a major upgrade is coming to Washington Irving. The district says the building is at 110% capacity, “with limited space for creative and instructional programs” and a “lack of dedicated space for specials” like band, orchestra and STEAM. The upgrades will address all of that, while also improving security, lighting, ceilings and floors – and making the building compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
At Sleepy Hollow High School, they’re getting lights for its sports field.
“We’re excited that the lights will give us flexibility to have evening events and more access for students and the entire community,” said Sanchez.
Plus, work is set to begin at Tappan Hill School this summer, as it opens for first graders in 2025.
Tappan closed more than 19 years ago.
Eventually, they are replacing the roof, floor and windows, among other things. However, this summer ceilings and LED lighting will be installed.
It’ll be used as a swing space while construction is underway at Morse, so first and second graders will have “a place that will continue to educate them and educate them well.”
Sanchez says eventually Tappan will become a kindergarten building.
All the work is being done districtwide to fulfill the district’s mission “to provide a healthy and innovative atmosphere while meeting the needs of all students of culturally, ethnically, and economically diverse backgrounds.”
