The proposed plan for construction at the Jericho Middle School/High School complex was outlined during the January 28 board of education meeting at Robert Seaman Elementary School. Will Reese, district construction manager, from School Construction Consultants, Inc., reviewed a preliminary project schedule with the board, administration and community members.

Site modifications, including road and parking alterations and additions, are currently underway. This will allow the construction of middle school and high school classrooms to commence at the end of June, as soon as the 1999 school year is completed. Finalized construction documents may be submitted to the New York State Education Department as early as March. Construction bids and the awarding of the contract for the middle school/high school additions will take place in May of this year.

A timeline for the expansion was developed with a major focus on ensuring a safe and productive environment for students. Construction activities will be segregated from building occupants to the greatest extent possible. Eight-foot-high chain link fences surrounding the areas of construction, and the relocation of buses and parking will also isolate construction sites from students.

Proper egress, or adequate emergency exiting of facilities in all affected areas, is currently being reviewed with architects. There will be multiple security measures, including worker ID tags, authorization upon entry and supervision, to ensure minimal contractor-student contact. Construction management will limit interior work to off-hours only.

Maintaining an optimal learning environment is also a major priority. Great efforts will be made to avoid any disruption in school activities and programs. The district is also considering impact on parking, tennis courts and bus-staging areas. The pool facility will not be affected.

The board of education and Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman expressed their commitment to completing this enormous project in a timely manner to minimize any disruptions in the education of students. Questions or concerns about the process can be directed to the central administration office at 681-4100 x203.