The North Reading School Committee voted unanimously, 5–0, to approve and submit a three‑year capital improvement plan that would fund remaining Hood School roof work, replace aging student devices, repair track and tennis surfaces and fund a third multifunction activity bus.

Administration told the committee the Hood School roof phase 3 — the remaining smaller roof sections — is estimated at about $400,000 and completing it would secure the project’s 10‑year warranty. "That would allow the district to have their 10‑year warranty on this roof," a facilities presenter said when outlining the request.

Device replacements: The district proposed a $75,000 request to replace roughly 230 student devices next year (about $325 per device), using remaining airmark grant funds plus capital. The presenter said sustaining two full grades of devices would require about $125,000 in future years.

Athletics and community facilities: An assessment of the track and tennis courts found significant wear in high‑traffic areas. Administration recommended a two‑year approach: track repairs in FY27 (approx. $185,000) and tennis repairs the following summer (approx. $195,000). Because some surfaces are town‑owned, projects would likely be joint requests with Parks & Recreation and the Hillview Commission.

Activity bus: The district described an operational need for a third 15‑passenger activity bus (estimated $70,000–$75,000). Administration proposed the performing arts revolving account contribute $25,000–$30,000 and asked CIPC for the remainder, noting a potential payback period of about three years from reduced rental/contract costs for trips.

TV studio and other items: Middle‑school TV studio equipment — more than 10 years old — requires replacement or upgrades; administration estimated up to $50,000 pending vendor bids. Other longer‑range items identified in the plan include elementary wireless infrastructure replacement, vehicle replacements for grounds and maintenance, and potential wastewater plant membrane replacements that may be town expenses.

Board discussion centered on ownership and funding partnerships, prioritization strategy to maximize CIPC approval and the operational impacts of construction windows. The committee approved the CIP submission as amended and asked administration to pursue joint requests where appropriate.

What happens next: The district will submit the three‑year CIP request to the municipal Capital Improvement Planning Committee, which will rank and prioritize individual projects; final funding decisions will occur through that municipal process and town meeting approvals.