SENATE ENDORSES MEASURE TO SUPPORT SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION

Alfond’s bill kick-starts rebuilding of schools in disrepair

AUGUSTA—On Tuesday, the Senate voted 22—13 in favor of a measure to allow schools in need of repair to begin the process of rebuilding.

“Our schools create the way of life in our communities, but many schools are old, crumbling and unsafe for our students and communities,” said Senate President Justin Alfond of Portland. “I am glad a strong majority of Senators supported this bill.”

The measure would allow the top 12 schools on the Major Capital School Construction Priority List which have not been approved to receive state aid for reconstruction to begin the pre-planning process for building or rebuilding their schools. Schools seeking state aid must apply with the State Board of Education. School projects are ranked based on need, and the State Board approves schools as funds become available. Schools not approved for funding by the State Board must wait for assistance.

“We want our schools to provide the best quality education possible, and the school building is an integral part of that,” Senator Rebecca Millett of Cape Elizabeth, the Senate Chair of the Education Committee. ”Our schools should be a source of community pride. Studies show that our physical surroundings have a big effect on morale, and this is no different with our schools.”

Seventy-one schools applied for aid, and only six were approved. The remaining sixty-five schools, all with various levels of need, will be penalized by the State Department of Education if they move forward with their projects.

“It’s important to see progress both inside the classroom and outside. This bill is an integral step in allowing schools to move forward with getting their plans on paper and one step closer to shovel-ready,” said Senate President Alfond.

The bill, LD 1235, “An Act Regarding School Construction,” now moves to the House for further votes.

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