Sag Harbor School District Officially Closes on Stella Maris For $3.3 Million

SAG HARBOR, NY — It's official: The Sag Harbor School District officially closed on the former Stella Maris Catholic School on Dec. 22, for a purchase price of $3.3. million, officials said

The purchase comes seven months after taxpayers, in a 736-595 vote, authorized a $10.23 million bond for the purchase and renovation of the property, the district said in a release.

Planned renovations will bring the building into compliance with New York State Department of Education standards, including safety and handicap compliance, with a goal of long-term sustainability for the building, officials said.

Plans for the building space include relocation of the existing pre-K classrooms, leased space for a licensed daycare provider and an area for early intervention services.

In addition, the district will relocate its business offices to the building in order to create additional middle school classroom space at Pierson Middle/High School, the release said.

Other options on the table include the possibility of using the former Stella Maris building for evening classes, as well as additional theater and athletic related events.

“It is with great anticipation that we move forward with this project,” said Superintendent of Schools Katy Graves.

With the purchase finalized, the district will move forward to hire an architectural firm through an interview process that will involve a committee of district stakeholders, the release said.

Photo courtesy of the Sag Harbor School District.