Board explores full‑day kindergarten options, visits to modular classrooms inform feasibility

At the board’s request, administration revisited options to implement an all‑day kindergarten program by the 2027–28 school year and described a recent visit to the Antietam School District to observe modular (portable) classroom configurations. Mr. Stout reported on the visit and presented photos and observations of modular classrooms in use after flood damage at Antietam.

Mr. Stout said the Antietam portables included multiple full‑size classrooms, intervention rooms, a large cafeteria area that supports multiple classrooms, and security measures such as door swipers. He described how portables were arranged in pods connected by outdoor walkways and noted that some units were previously used while others were newly built and customized. "They look like brand new classrooms, essentially," he said when describing modern modular units.

Staff told the board they are asking architects (CHA) to study feasibility and options specific to Boyertown Elementary — including the possibility of attaching modular classrooms to the existing building to maintain secure access, which would reduce land development impacts (water/sewer hookups) and simplify restroom access. Administration said the preferred configurations under study would be even‑numbered runs (four or six classrooms) rather than a five‑unit layout. The district will examine whether to use new or refurbished units and procurement options (lease vs. purchase), anticipated code requirements, power and internet service needs, and warranty considerations.

Board members raised concerns about impacts on special‑area scheduling (art and music), classroom storage, and how modular placement would affect other elementary schools. Staff said some schools in the district (Gilbertsville, New Hanover, Colvertdale) have space that could be reconfigured, though tradeoffs would be required for special‑area rooms. Leaders said they hope to return feasibility details and cost estimates in March and include recommendations in the budget timeline (proposed budget presented in May; final budget in June).

What happens next: architects and facilities staff will produce feasibility studies and cost estimates and report back at the March legislative meeting with recommended configuration and budget implications.