MORRIS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Morris School District was built on the mission of creating greater opportunities for all students. Now the district holding a bond referendum to fund enhanced instruction in updated learning environments.

MSD schools are well-maintained by design. Routine needs are included in the annual budget, and over the last decade, the district funded $55 million in capital projects to improve infrastructure and expand and renovate buildings.

But our schools are currently feeling the strain of aging infrastructure systems and the need to meet the demands of today's curriculum standards with modern learning environments and educational technology. These issues require large-scale improvements that cannot be managed through the regular budget. MSD is planning a bond referendum with projects to benefit all schools in the district. If voters approve the proposal, the district will receive state aid to reduce the local cost of the projects.

• New windows would let in more natural light and provide improved security and insulation.
• Roofing that is at the end of its useful life, putting buildings at risk for leaks and costly repairs, would be replaced.
• HVAC projects would enhance comfort and efficiency.
• Building management systems monitor equipment to reduce unnecessary use and utility costs.
• New boilers.
• Conversion from steam to water heat.
• Classroom unit ventilators that bring in fresh outside air and provide heating and cooling.
• Electrical upgrades would enhance safety and efficiency and support modern demands of educational technology.
• Emergency generators and fire alarms would be upgraded where needed.
• Bathrooms would be modernized with touch-free technology and improved ventilation and accessibility.

• The MHS cafeteria has seating for 300 – around a fifth of the school’s enrollment. Expanding the cafeteria would ensure students have adequate time and space for lunch.
• FMS holds World Language instruction and other classes in trailers because of a longstanding space shortage. The workaround is less than optimal for instruction, and transitions to and from the trailers cut into learning time. An eight-classroom addition would bring all students under one roof.
• Sussex Avenue School had to shift World Language to a cart and might need to repurpose other learning spaces to keep up with high enrollment. A three-classroom addition would relieve crowding and create room for accessibility and safety upgrades.

• The FMS addition would create room for a STEM lab to support modern curriculum standards and prepare students for the STEM Academy at MHS.
• The FMS auditorium has outdated and poorly functioning seats, lighting and other equipment. A plan to renovate the space and add air conditioning would provide a better experience for students and the community throughout the year.
• Renovations at the historic MHS auditorium would include ADA-accessible upgrades, new lighting and a modern climate control system to create a better experience for students and the community.
• The MHS media center would be transformed into a modern, digital-focused space that aligns with the way students work and study.
• Science lab renovations to create spaces that support STEM learning are proposed at Alexander Hamilton, FMS and MHS.

• The Morristown High School pool provides endless opportunities for our students to achieve, stay active, and work as a team. The pool has become part of the district’s identity and serves swim teams throughout Morris County, which would have no home base if the pool closes.
• The pool is at the end of its life and will close if it is not replaced. If voters approve the referendum, MSD receives state aid toward the cost of the replacement, and the pool will continue to serve as a school and community resource, as well as a source of community revenue.