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Construction, security upgrades and a new cell‑phone rule: Chappaqua district readies buildings for Sept. 2 opening
Summary
Administrators reported construction progress across the district Aug. 7 — including the J Building bridge, a new guardhouse and athletic pavilion roof — and announced a districtwide ban on student cell‑phone use during instructional time under CCSD policy 5031, with classroom supports and limited faculty discretion for instruction.
District administrators told the Chappaqua Central School District Board of Education on Aug. 7 that major summer construction and safety projects are on track for the start of school and that the district will implement a new restriction on student cell‑phone use during instructional time.
Student board member Matthew Wolstatter, speaking in his first official update to the board, described two construction projects he observed this summer: reconstruction of the “J Bridge,” which will reconnect the Math & Science (J) Building to the main high‑school complex, and a new guardhouse that will control visitor access at the high school. “From a student perspective, it’s really cool to see the changes that are being made,” Wolstatter said.
Business staff reported the athletic pavilion roof is being installed, the electrical and piping systems are in place, and crews expect major pieces to be completed in the coming weeks. HVAC and electrical upgrades at the elementary and other schools are on schedule, the staff member said; the elementary school systems were due to be turned on next week, with the middle and high school systems complete by the start of classes. The one construction uncertainty noted was a roof crane lift at Bell School that could affect timing for that specific project.
On safety and access, administrators said the new guardhouse will oversee visitors entering campus and improve visitor screening prior to the school year.
Student use of cell phones will be restricted during instructional time under district policy 5031 in accordance with New York State guidance the district cited. Wolstatter said students will store phones in backpacks, lockers or pockets, and classrooms will have phone holders to support the change. Dr. Pease said the policy allows faculty discretion for instructional use when appropriate and the district will work with students on acclimation.
Athletics and facilities matters discussed at the meeting included portable field lighting purchased to support evening recreational use; the district plans to make lights available for rent and to house them at a district location. Administrators said eight portable lights will be available to cover full‑field needs, with a rental fee structure that includes battery‑charging electricity costs.
Administrators also reported that merged athletic participation agreements will continue for programs where student interest does not produce a standalone team, citing past mergers for girls’ ice hockey and gymnastics.
The board was told all teaching positions are filled ahead of the school year, with one social worker resignation noted on the agenda and a plan to recommend a replacement at the next meeting. The district will begin opening‑day and orientation schedules in August, including new‑family orientations on Aug. 20 and full staff opening activities the week of Aug. 25–28.
