Westbrook Park Elementary reopens after summer renovations

Westbrook Park Elementary School in Upper Darby Township reopened this spring after summer renovations that included new ceiling tiles, upgraded lighting, matching desks and chairs, and new HVAC in the kindergarten, fourth- and fifth-grade hallways and the library, Principal Mark Comfort and Assistant Principal Cameron Busch told the Upper Darby School District board on May 13.

School leaders said the work — which also included new ceiling fans, upgraded light switches and classroom repainting — made classrooms brighter, improved air comfort in previously non‑air‑conditioned areas and boosted staff and student morale. "Over the summer, Westwood Park underwent a number of much needed renovations that have greatly improved the learning environment for our students and staff," Comfort said during the work‑session presentation.

Cameron Busch described specific upgrades completed last summer and how they affected day‑to‑day teaching. "These changes have not only improved the physical appearance of our school, but have had a positive impact on the overall morale of our students and staff. The learning environment feels refreshed, safer, and more modern," Busch said. She noted electricians replaced switches so teachers can operate lights and fans independently: "So you can put the lights on without the fans or the fans on without the light." District staff also installed new ceiling tiles, replaced mismatched desks with a single matching set and removed damaged ceiling sections, she said.

Presenters described a rapid construction schedule that required teachers to pack classrooms and that the district supplied boxes for the move. Comfort said contractors began demolition quickly and that crews removed material in dumpsters; when staff returned, classrooms and hallways were repainted and refitted. "When we came back, I was definitely surprised by how I didn't know how much of a difference those changes would make," Comfort said.

Administrators said air conditioning was added to the wing that serves kindergarten and upper elementary grades. Busch said that, combined with improved lighting and new furniture, the space now appears more welcoming and better aligned with district colors; she noted new flooring matching the district’s purple and gold is planned for next summer.

Presenters thanked the Board of School Directors, district facilities staff and administrators for approving and supporting the work. The remarks were informational; no board action on the renovations was recorded at the May 13 meeting.