Architect outlines security vestibules, classroom renovations and two-phase construction under Freehold referendum

Freehold Township School District trustees on Monday heard detailed plans for security and interior renovations funded by a voter-approved referendum, including secure vestibules at every building, permanent classroom walls in several pod areas and renovated nurse suites.

Olga Panchal, a project manager at Spezo Architectural Group, told the board the referendum work splits into two main components: broad equipment replacement (roofs, HVAC, fire alarms and controls) and a targeted security package that includes secure vestibules, replacement of interior and exterior doors with security hardware, and the conversion of wings at Applegate and Erickson into typical classroom space where permanent walls were previously absent. "We are replacing interior and exterior doors at all eight schools with security hardware," Panchal said, describing classroom door hardware with a visible green/red lock indicator and a secure check-in window with a pass-through tray at visitor vestibules.

The presentation included renderings for Applegate and Erickson showing infill of existing overhangs to create separate staff and visitor entrances. Panchal said the vestibules will have a staff entry with card access and a separate single-door visitor entry with a secure check-in window. She described improvements to nurses' offices — private exam rooms, two cots and additional desks — and ADA-compliant toilets in special-education classrooms.

Panchal outlined glazing and film specifications intended to slow glass breakage in an attack and provide time for response; she said the district's spec will include a clear security film commonly used in school projects (she cited a 23-mil film as a typical choice). Board members questioned whether students could accidentally lock themselves inside classrooms; the architect and administrators explained the internal key-lock mechanism and discussed training and drill options to ensure appropriate response. "The film will protect the glass to shatter and give you additional time," Panchal said in response to questions about glazing.

School business administrator Rob Davide certified the district's fiscal status, saying no line item had been overexpended as of Oct. 31, 2025, and noted that the construction package is being coordinated so the district can assess referendum funds before awarding large contracts.

Panchal described the schedule: design development is complete, construction documents will begin immediately, the goal is to put the security/addition and alteration work out to bid in February, and site construction is slated to begin in June 2026 with a second phase for long-lead equipment in summer 2027. Roofing replacements are being documented and bid separately; some roofing work is already under way.

Administrators said Erickson and Applegate will need swing space at the end of the 2025–26 school year to accommodate pod moves; other interior work will require temporary swing spaces and some second-shift work while students are in session. The district plans to finalize phasing with principals and share a detailed plan with the board before construction begins.

The board did not vote on the construction documents at the meeting; the presentation provided design details and a procurement timeline for the referendum projects. The next procedural step is preparing construction documents and bidding in February.