Newark holds school project meeting
By John Zornow

Proposal Explained

Amid the sounds of band practice from an adjoining room, members of the community gathered to hear about a proposed new building project. Newark Superintendent of Schools Robert Christmann made a presentation before approximately 35 citizens. Although the turnout was low, the atmosphere was generally supportative.

After showing sketches of the options that are being considered for each school building, Christmann gave an oerview of how state aid would come in to play if the propsal is approved by residents. According to Christmann, 91% of the entire project would be covered by state aid. This means that the district would be responsible for only nine (9) per cent of the cost. Christmann pointed out that this nine per cent would be reduced by money that has been set aside for a building project, plus other debt reduction options.

What is driving this building project?

Christmann explained that in every area of the Newark school system, overcrowding exists. Lack of space for acedemic instruction, full-day kindergarten, and possible BOCES participation are key factors for undertaking such a project.

Residents ask questions.

Arcadia resident Gerald DeBarr asked if state aid combined with money in bank would cover costs. Christmann said no, and indicated that a school tax increase of 2% is projected.

DeBarr then asked about ancillary costs, such as additional teachers. Christmann responded that new classrooms don't necessarily mean more teachers.

"Why not build in the courtyard spaces?" Christmann explained that building in courtyard areas would be a safety concern, because windows of existing classrooms would be blocked. Also, all materials would have to be lifted over the building to gain access to the courtyard.

"Would we be tearing up recently renovated areas?" Christmann admitted some, but very little.

And the big question: "Why not just construct a new building?" Christmann indicated that when the ad-hoc committee held meetings to discuss options, one of the first things discussed was that the community did not want to close any existing schools, and that building a new, large building would result in the closing of a school, possibly Perkins or Lincoln.

While the general feeling of support for a building expansion was evident at the meeting, West Miller St. resident Ange DeJohn said that she was not in favor of putting young children in the Miller St. location - an area she called 'downtown.'

DeJohn was wary of more upheaval in the schools, and reiterated that she had no trust in the (school) administration. Superintendent Christmann addressed DeJohn's comments by saying that the community can't ignore the fact that the district has children in sub-standard space, and that the board has an obligation to address the problem.

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