Architects outline broad renovations for Suffern Central, propose design steps toward possible 2026 referendum

Suffern, N.Y. — Architects from Mammasi told the Suffern Central School District board on Jan. 6 that the district’s buildings “have strong bones” but need extensive renovations to modernize instructional spaces, co-locate student services and address athletic and site deficiencies ahead of any referendum planning.

The presentation, led by Tina Masidi Seas and senior project architect Pierije Pankaldi of Mammasi, identified recurring problems at the high school, middle school and elementary schools: ambiguous or unsecured main entrances and lobbies, dispersed guidance and nursing suites, music and technology rooms that lack acoustic or programmatic design, underused shop and lab spaces, and outdoor facilities nearing the end of their useful life. The designers also highlighted traffic congestion at the high-school site and failing tennis courts and track surfaces.

Why it matters: The architects framed facility work as paired with instructional goals — flexible classrooms, visible STEAM and arts spaces, modern libraries as shared hubs, and consolidated student-wellness centers — and said renovating existing spaces could better support student learning without new construction in most cases.

Mammasi recommended four district-wide priorities: secure, clearly identified entrances and improved circulation; co-located student-support services (counseling, nursing, family resources); redesigned learning spaces that promote collaboration and program visibility; and upgraded athletic and outdoor facilities to ensure safety and usability.

Board members asked about the high-school pool, program visibility and timing. The superintendent said the pool is not currently a high priority and described the presentation as the beginning of a multi-step process: “we are certainly this, as you mentioned, this is these are the beginning stages,” and the architects will return with preliminary concepts and cost estimates. Mammasi said it will meet with administrators, staff, students and community members to prioritize needs and then produce budgets and revised concepts.

What’s next: The firm will develop preliminary design solutions and a project budget, and the district plans further community engagement this winter and spring. The superintendent said the district hopes to identify what the community is willing to support and noted an “ultimate vote in 2026” is the tentative target if the board and community pursue a capital project.

The presentation material showed renovation examples—secure vestibules, reconfigured guidance suites, reimagined libraries with central gathering spaces and STEAM labs, flexible classrooms, and updated art and music studios—most implemented as renovations rather than new construction.

The board thanked the presenters and signaled additional meetings and public engagement as the district and architects refine priorities and costs.