To the SGI Community,
As we look across our campus, it is easy to see the pride we take in our facilities. We recently celebrated the completion of our $19.6 million capital project, which brought significant improvements to our learning environments. However, stewardship of a school district requires a constant eye on the horizon.
To bridge the gap between our past successes and our next major long-term initiative planned for 2032, I’ve written to you a few times this year about a targeted "Interim Capital Project." This proposal is a direct result of our most recent Building Condition Survey—a state-mandated "physical" for our facilities—which identified specific areas requiring immediate attention to protect our community’s investment.
A Balance of Necessity and Enhancement
This interim project isn't about grand gestures; it’s about smart maintenance and targeted upgrades. The scope of work focuses on two primary pillars:
Critical Infrastructure: We are prioritizing "behind-the-scenes" essentials that keep our students safe and our buildings dry, including the replacement and refurbishment of roofing sections, modernizing fire alarm systems, and vital mechanical upgrades.
Student Experience: Alongside infrastructure, we are addressing high-use areas that impact student life daily, including renovations to locker rooms and bathrooms, and significant upgrades to our fitness center facilities.
CLICK HERE to see our Capital Project 2026 updates and long range planning.
Zero Additional Tax Impact
I am pleased to share that this project has been meticulously designed with our taxpayers in mind. By ensuring that every aspect of the project is fully aidable by New York State, we can maximize external funding.
The Bottom Line: We will utilize our existing Capital Reserve Fund to cover the local share. Between those established savings and State Aid, this project carries no additional tax impact for the Springville-Griffith community.
Why Vote on May 19th?
Typically, capital project votes are held independently. However, for this interim project, we have made the conscious decision to hold the vote on Tuesday, May 19th—the same day as our annual Budget Vote and Board Election.
Because this project is smaller in scale, we believe it is fiscally responsible to combine these events. Hosting a separate vote comes with administrative and operational costs; by streamlining the process, we are saving district resources and, more importantly, respecting your time by asking for a single trip to the polls.
Community Engagement Opportunities
Come learn more about the project from our Architects, Construction Managers, and Myself on the following dates:
April 23, 2026: During the SES Open House and Art Show
May 5, 2026: Community Information Session, 6PM, Springville Middle School LMC
May 14, 2026: During CES Open House and Art Show
Join Us at the Polls
Maintaining a safe, modern, and efficient school district is a collaborative effort. This interim project allows us to accomplish must-do repairs while also attending to items that will enhance our students’ experiences, all while remaining fiscally disciplined.
We look forward to seeing you on May 19th. Thank you for your continued support of our students and our schools!
James Bialasik
Superintendent of Schools