At its meeting on January 7, 2026, the East Meadow School District’s Board of Education anticipates adopting a resolution to proceed with a community vote on Thursday, March 5, 2026, on the financing of comprehensive capital improvements through a bond referendum.
“While we have made significant improvements to our building infrastructure, health/safety systems, learning spaces and athletic facilities over the past several years, important work remains,” said Superintendent of Schools Ken Rosner. “We have taken a thoughtful and strategic approach to planning this work, understanding that some components are not feasible within the constraints of the district’s annual budget or capital reserve fund.”
The proposed project being considered by the Board includes improvements for every building throughout the district, centered on security upgrades, athletics and the arts. At all buildings, including the Salisbury School, security vestibules will be constructed to strengthen controlled access and provide an added layer of protection for students and staff during the school day. We will also be changing all the interior door locks to help reinforce our security measures in all our classrooms. Additionally, the fire alarm systems in each building will be replaced and brought up to code.
To enhance the playing experience, and expand opportunities for student-athletes, the proposal includes a series of athletic facility upgrades designed to improve safety, durability and year-round usability. At East Meadow High School, the project calls for the installation of new synthetic turf fields on the existing baseball, softball and practice fields. These fields will allow for consistent playing conditions, quicker recovery after inclement weather and increased access for practices and competitions. The plan includes new bleachers, a press box, and lighting at the football field as well as new concession stand, with restrooms, to further support the athletes, families, and spectators. The project will also provide for the renovation of some existing locker rooms that are used by our students for physical education classes as well as our visiting athletes from other districts.
At W.T. Clarke Middle/High School, turf fields will be added at the softball, practice and multi-purpose fields. The project includes the installation of new bleachers and the addition of lighting at the football field, to expand the district’s ability to host events and maximize facility usage. The Clarke High School athletic complex will also include outside restrooms to be built in an existing structure. In addition, synthetic turf baseball and multi-purpose fields will be installed at the Salisbury School.
Woodland Middle School will see the construction of new turf baseball, softball and football fields. New bleachers will be installed for the football stadium to accommodate our familes and community.
The proposal being considered includes HVAC and audio-visual system upgrades to the performing arts centers at East Meadow High School, W.T. Clarke Middle/High School and Woodland Middle School; these upgrades will enhance comfort and performance capabilities. In addition, the plan calls for the complete renovation of select playgrounds and safety surfaces at each elementary school to improve safety, accessibility and play opportunities for younger students. The plan also includes the installation of sensory playgrounds at Bowling Green Elementary School and Meadowbrook Elementary School for use by our students with special needs.
“It is important to note that while the proposal being considered focuses mainly on security, athletic and arts improvements, we continue to proceed with academic enhancements for students,” said Jessica Ricco-Simeone, School Board President. “These will continue to be funded through the district’s regular operating budget and, where appropriate, the capital improvement fund, ensuring that instructional programs and classroom needs remain a top priority for our community.”
The total cost of the proposal being considered by the Board is $71.5 million and would be financed through a bond. At its highest cost, the bond would cost $31.86 annually for the average homeowner in the district.
“I thank all community residents who took time to offer feedback during our community forums held earlier this fall,” said Mr. Rosner. “Their input was important in finalizing the scope of work being considered. We will continue to update residents and look forward to continued participation from the community.”
All information related to capital projects can be found on the district’s website, www.emufsd.us.
Should the board adopt the resolution to proceed with a community vote on Thursday, March 5, all information regarding the vote will be shared in the coming weeks.