SPENCER, N.Y. — Spencer-Van Etten Central School District residents will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed $22.6 million capital improvement project on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. The proposal addresses long-term safety, space and infrastructure needs across the district — with no tax increase to residents.
“Our continued commitment is to ensure every student learns in an environment that is safe, modern and supportive of their success,” said Superintendent of Schools Barbara J. Case. “This project aligns directly with our strategic plan and our shared goal of enhancing the student experience across all grade levels.”
The proposal was shaped using community feedback gathered through an exit poll at the May budget vote, districtwide surveys of parents, staff, students and community members, and findings from the Building Condition Survey (BCS). The BCS identifies district wide facilities issues such as structural failure, deterioration and end-of-life building components.
Based on that data, the district developed a proposed project that includes work at the high school, middle school, elementary school and transportation building. Work would include both interior and exterior renovations, mechanical, electrical and plumbing improvements, pavement upgrades, and replacement furnishings, fixtures and equipment.
High School Improvements
The project proposes several major upgrades at the high school, including construction of a new 2.5-acre multipurpose synthetic turf field in the existing athletic terrace. Additional work includes paving, drainage and signage improvements, track resurfacing, courtyard updates, a vehicular stream crossing, a new maintenance storage building, and a dedicated concession space under an existing building overhang. Structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing improvements are included throughout the building.
Middle School Improvements
Proposed work includes new rubber surfacing for playground areas, reconstruction of the basketball court, and a series of structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades.
Elementary School Improvements
Upgrades include two new playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, a new basketball court, improved lighting, fuel storage enhancements and courtyard updates, along with additional building system improvements.
Transportation Facility Upgrades
The transportation facility would receive fencing, pavement improvements, upgraded exterior lighting and extensive structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing work to ensure ongoing safety and efficiency. The district notes that together, these improvements will support long-term learning needs and facility reliability.
Funding and Tax Impact
The project would be funded through a combination of New York State Building Aid and existing capital reserves, allowing the district to advance the work at no additional tax impact. Funding sources include $2,593,596 from the 2020 Capital Reserve and up to $1,906,404 from the 2024 Capital Reserve — a total of $4.5 million — reducing the amount borrowed to $18,096,600. That borrowed amount would then be paid using $17,346,600 in state building aid and $750,000 from the district’s Debt Service Fund.
“This financial approach reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and long-term investment in student learning,” Case said. “The projects included in the proposal represent a thoughtful, long-term investment in the safety, functionality and educational quality of our district schools — with no tax increase to our residents.”
Vote Details
Polls will be open from 12-8 p.m. at the Spencer-Van Etten High School Auditorium Lobby