Committee members and district staff reported progress on the district's building program and facilities work at the Oct. 16 meeting, including construction updates, furniture pilots, Forest Avenue planning and winter preparations.

Building project and construction: Representatives reported that construction at the Godet/Valley Elementary complex is progressing and that steel erection is expected to begin by Thanksgiving. The elevator shaft is in place and a second elevator will follow; project managers and staff said the work is on time and on budget. The project team includes Gilbane (construction manager) and Colliers (owner's representative), and the committee noted ongoing coordination with town staff.

Furniture pilot and classroom trials: The district is trialing flexible classroom furniture provided at no cost by a vendor (WB Mason / Versus Furniture noted in meeting discussion) at GLA, GMS and the high school. Staff reported positive teacher and student feedback during classroom trials and are collecting photos and teacher input to inform selections for new buildings. The vendor is providing installation and follow-up services during the pilot; the district stressed there is no charge for the trial equipment and no guarantee that the same products will be used in the new schools.

Forest Avenue and facilities operations: District staff have been planning a transition of Forest Avenue into an early learning center and are discussing possible educational enhancements for the elementary complex. Facilities staff implemented a new work-order system across town and school buildings to improve maintenance tracking. The facilities team also reported preparations for winter operations, particularly snow removal.

Grants and supports noted: The administration announced a $50,000 McKinney-Vento grant to support homeless youth with after-school enrichment and participation supports; the district is also working on a Van Buren grant in partnership with Brown University to support mental-health services for teachers, families and teens.

Other operational items: With the absence of a technology director, IT staff and a long-time consultant (Jim Lass) have been supporting district operations and working with school stakeholder groups to define classroom technology needs for each level (elementary, middle and high school). The committee also discussed the possibility of consolidating community fundraising and foundation efforts as the district plans new construction.

No committee votes were required for these updates; staff sought and received committee feedback on pilot activities and planning.