Decision Reached On School In Madison Tuesday; Also Update On School Utilization Study

Written by Madison Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice

MADISON, CT — As you are aware, a significant storm is approaching the region. Schools will be closed tomorrow (Tuesday, March 14, 2017). However, I want to make you aware that if the storm duration continues into the evening on Tuesday, and if there is a deep refreeze Tuesday night, it will be very difficult for town's Public Works Department to clear all roads for safe travel of buses.

It is likely that schools may close Wednesday as well. My hope is that the storm shifts east out to sea, but by all accounts it is expected that we will get upwards of 15 inches of snow. Opening Day for Major League baseball is only three weeks away on April 3. To sign up for Madison breaking news alerts and more, click here.

School Utilization Study Update

In the fall of 2014 the Board of Education (BOE) began a comprehensive analysis of the school facilities in order to address:

• declining enrollment of students,
• the aging condition of the facilities, and
• to ensure that the district facilities match the instructional vision of the district.

Last fall, the BOE decided to further examine the viability of a five school district model. Currently, the district utilizes six total schools and the Town Campus Learning Center preschool. In a five school model it is anticipated that Island Avenue School would eventually close, while newly constructed, or renovated, schools on the Jeffrey and Ryerson School campuses would serve all elementary grades in the town. However, if adopted by the BOE, and endorsed by the Boards of Selectmen and Finance this spring, this process would take multiple years to complete.

Between submitting application for state reimbursements, planning and designing the renovation or construction projects, and subjecting the financing to a town referendum, it is quite possible that the very earliest this process would culminate is the 2020-2021 school year. In the interim, the BOE is, without question, committed to ensuring equity between all three elementary schools by sustaining necessary maintenance projects, while also delivering the highest quality instructional program with equitable staffing in all three schools.

As we enter the spring months, more specific information will be available, particularly as the school district aligns its efforts with the long-term strategic plan for the Town of Madison. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office directly at 203-245-6320, or by email: scaricet@madison.k12.ct.us

Thomas Scarice

Superintendent of Schools