Grade Configuration (beginning 24-25 school year)
Ultimately, the School Building Committee referred this grade configuration to the full School Committee for consideration and approval, which was granted. The project re-entered the feasibility phase with a focus on the Greylock site for an early elementary PreK-2 school.
After reviewing preliminary design costs, the School Building Committee voted unanimously to support a new school construction for our youngest learners, representing an educational focus and plan for increased early-childhood experiences to improve literacy and numeracy skill development in an inclusive learning environment.
With state support, this new school will foster innovation in early learning that will have long-term impacts on the educational outcomes for the children of North Adams and the community in which they live.
Renovating Brayton Elementary School, would cost the taxpayers more than building a new school at the Greylock site.
Brayton's roof lining, replaced in 2001 and partially repaired in 2019, still suffers from leaks. Its original windows fog and leak, and the boiler has piping failures. Most of the building receives limited natural light, and its entryway design causes temperature regulation issues. Additionally, much of the original 1994 carpeting remains, with some areas replaced by tiles due to water damage or mold.
The estimated cost to renovate Brayton Elementary School is approximately $45 million. This renovation would address various issues, including mechanical systems, electrical upgrades, and structural repairs needed to continue to utilize the building as a school. However, the renovation would not fully meet the school's architectural priorities, such as improved outdoor access, natural light, and adaptable learning spaces. The rising costs of construction and supply chain issues influenced the decision to consider building a new school instead. The breakdown of costs includes major expenses like mechanical system replacement ($13.3 million), HVAC ($11.1 million), and electrical upgrades ($6.6 million), among others can be found, below in our FAQ.
There is no zero-cost option to maintaining our school buildings in the City of North Adams.