SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Post-referendum construction is progressing steadily across Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools, with the district on track to open the renovated La Grande Elementary School to pre-kindergarten students in September 2026 and complete critical HVAC, electrical, and fire alarm upgrades across multiple buildings in the coming months.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Scotch Plains and Fanwood communities for supporting the referendum last year," said Superintendent Dr. Joan Mast. "We are excited to see the construction work progressing, from new walls and floors being installed at La Grande to new electrical panels that will support HVAC upgrades at our elementary schools."
In January 2025, district residents approved a $44.77 million referendum, supported by $11.4 million in state funding, to fund HVAC, electrical, and fire alarm upgrades across all schools, purchase and renovate the La Grande building at 330 South Avenue in Fanwood to house all pre-kindergarten classes, and cover the annual operating costs of the new facility.
The district purchased the building in May 2025, and interior demolition and renovations on both floors are now underway, alongside a selective roof replacement, parking lot restoration, security and technology enhancements, and new playground equipment.
Fire alarm upgrades are also moving forward. New systems have been installed at Brunner, Coles, and School One Elementary Schools, with work underway at Evergreen and La Grande and completion expected before the start of the school year.
HVAC and electrical work has been divided into two construction packages. Electrical panel, conduit, and wiring installations at Brunner, Evergreen, and McGinn schools began in March 2026 and are expected to wrap up by August.
Work at Coles, School One, Terrill, and Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School is scheduled to begin in spring 2027, with completion anticipated in fall 2027. By the 2027-28 school year, all SPF schools will have universal air conditioning.
"The referendum projects will positively impact every student and staff member in our district, leaving a lasting impact," Mast said.
For updates on construction timelines and approved bids, visit spfk12.org/our-district/referendum-updates or email future@spfk12.org.
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