Board signs off on submission of $27.5M priority ed-specs to modernize Stamford High envelope and science labs

The Stamford School District’s Operations Committee approved Resolution 04282636 on March 11 to submit educational specifications for a priority project at Stamford High School, an initiative the board and architects described as a combined exterior reclad and major science-lab renovation estimated at roughly $27.5 million.

Catherine Lombardo told the committee the submission is time-sensitive: "You only get one opportunity each year to submit, and it must be before June 30," she said, noting the board must also obtain subsequent authorizations from the planning board, board of finance and board of representatives. Lombardo said the priority route is required for the larger, holistic scope and that the submission is an early planning step (ed-specs) rather than final designs.

Architect Travis Schnell of KG and D Architects presented the ed-specification highlights for the 1971 wing. Schnell said the existing exterior envelope has no continuous insulation, contains deteriorated brick veneer, corroded lintels and lacks modern vapor barriers; the proposed approach is a full reclad of the 1971 facade with continuous insulation, modern glazing and a new rainscreen or masonry treatment designed to meet current energy-code and durability expectations. "Brick installed properly is a long term, 50-plus year solution," Schnell said, adding that the team will include an envelope engineer and follow shop-drawing and on-site verification procedures.

Schnell also described a gut renovation of the science labs intended to meet next-generation science standards: the ed-specs target 15 labs of about 1,200 square feet that can each accommodate roughly 24 students, with a two-to-one prep-room ratio for shared prep spaces and dedicated chemistry labs with vented fume hoods. The scope includes upgraded unit ventilators with air conditioning, new efficient fume hoods that operate on demand, LED lighting with daylighting and occupancy controls, technology infrastructure and security improvements at entrances.

Board members raised questions about prior repairs to the 1971 exterior and whether repointing would have been sufficient. Schnell and Lombardo responded that prior repointing can be a short- to mid-term fix but that the district’s evaluation revealed broader deterioration that makes a reclad a more durable solution and more likely to qualify for a higher reimbursement under state program rules. Lombardo confirmed the project will require asbestos abatement in places and that abatement and phased construction will be scheduled to avoid student exposure, typically staged during summer or after hours.

The committee approved the ed-spec submission by a 4–0 vote and staff said schematic-design and bidding will follow grant approval, with actual construction anticipated to occur after state funding notifications (likely starting schematic design in the fall and bidding in winter 2028 for summer 2028 construction cycles if grant awards are received).