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Barnegat, NJ (September 9, 2008) - The new Joseph T. Donahue Elementary School, which provides positive learning opportunities for 526 students in grades kindergarten through 5, was formally dedicated today at a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Barnegat Township School District.
New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) officials joined students, parents, teachers and residents at the dedication of the new school, which opened this week and addresses the increasing student population in the district. Following the dedication, public tours were offered and a school board meeting was conducted.
The school, named for the district's assistant superintendent, is among 12 new schools and major additions/renovations that were managed by the SDA and opened their doors to students this September. Four SDA-managed rehabilitation projects also were completed.
The 72,000-square-foot elementary school is 1½-story building that is adjacent to the Barnegat High School campus. The facility includes 25 classrooms as well as specialized education spaces such as a media center, art and music rooms, a cafeteria/auditorium, a gymnasium, a kitchen and administrative offices. |
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Scott Weiner, CEO of the SDA, said, “On behalf of everyone at the SDA, we are proud to have collaborated with the school district and community in the construction of this new and modern elementary school. This safe, healthy and sustainable facility will enhance student achievement and provide a more promising future for students for generations to come.”
The Vaughn Collaborative designed the school, which was built by Hessert Corporation. The project was managed for the SDA by Armand Corporation.
The Joseph T. Donahue Elementary School is one of four projects in Barnegat Township that were completed for opening this September. The other facilities are an addition to Barnegat High School, an addition/renovation to Russell O. Brackman Middle School and a renovation to Cecil S. Collins Elementary School.
Overall, the Authority has completed 44 schools, 41 major renovations and additions, and nearly 500 health, safety and other projects in SDA Districts (formerly classified as Abbott Districts). It has also completed 19 projects in Regular Operating Districts (RODs), including five new schools, nine extensive additions, renovations and/or rehabilitations, and five other projects. |
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The Authority has 21 active projects in SDA Districts, including three demonstration projects that promote urban revitalization. There are seven active projects in RODs.
The SDA manages previously approved projects in RODs that receive 55 percent or more of their budgets from state aid, or which elected SDA management. Under August 2007 legislation establishing SDA, such districts manage their own future projects.
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