Rye Fund for Education secures $183K for new lighting at high school performing arts center

During the recent Board of Education meeting on March 11, 2025, significant discussions centered around the ongoing upgrades to the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at Rye High School and Rye Middle School, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Rye Fund for Education and local parent organizations to enhance educational facilities.

The meeting featured a presentation by a trustee from the Rye Fund for Education, who detailed the ambitious project that began last summer. The initiative, backed by approximately $1.8 million from a bond, aims to improve the PAC with new stage curtains, window blinds, chandeliers, and crucially, to make the facility ADA accessible. However, additional upgrades, including a new sound system and lighting system, were identified as necessary, totaling a shortfall of $2.25 million.

The trustee emphasized the importance of these upgrades, particularly noting that the existing lighting system dates back to the 1980s and is increasingly difficult to maintain. The urgency of the upgrades was underscored by the potential risks of equipment failure during performances, which could detract from students' experiences.

In a positive turn, the Rye High School and Rye Middle School parent organizations stepped up, contributing $43,000 for the sound system, while the Rye Fund for Education recently pledged $183,000 for the lighting system. This funding not only addresses immediate needs but also reflects the Fund's commitment, having contributed over $1 million to the school system in just two years.

The meeting also highlighted various initiatives funded by the Rye Fund for Education, including grants for STEM workshops, professional training for the International Baccalaureate Program, and support for the Rye High School Newspaper Club's transition to digital journalism. These efforts aim to provide students with modern skills and experiences that align with real-world applications.

The trustee encouraged community involvement, urging parents to contribute through various channels, including voting on school budgets and capital bonds. The collaborative nature of these funding efforts illustrates the vital role that community support plays in enhancing educational opportunities for students.

As the PAC upgrades move forward, the community can look forward to improved facilities that not only benefit current students but also foster future generations' learning and creativity.