Board leans toward Option 1 for two new neighborhood elementary schools

Architects from Nichols Melberg & Roseto presented two site layout options for Neighborhood J and Neighborhood K elementary schools and described programmatic elements such as a combined admin/library/kindergarten building, a separate drop‑off lane and a multi‑use building that concentrates specialty classrooms. ‘‘The buildings are gonna be designed for 900 students on these campuses,’’ the architect said, noting each campus would typically include 31 general classrooms, music, science and special education spaces, and a makerspace.

Trustees asked about parking, sight lines, access and whether the sites could accommodate a cricket pitch. Superintendent Dr. Nicholas said funding is constrained and that Neighborhood J is positioned for accelerated work: ‘‘The budget for this all in with contingencies and construction cost and soft cost is $60,000,000,’’ he said, and staff said Neighborhood J could start site work in May–June with an opening targeted for 2026. After discussion, trustees expressed a consensus preference for Option 1 for both campuses, citing more consolidated fields and clearer sight lines; staff will direct geotechnical investigations and return with next‑stage design details.