Carnegie Elementary Renovation Project Update
plants without soil— and discovered practical ways to bring this sustainable practice into their classrooms. Just as valuable was the opportunity to connect with educators from neighboring districts who have already successfully implemented hydroponic systems. Through these conversations, they gained insight, inspiration, and confidence to bring the idea back to Carlynton.
As the school year progressed, kindergarten and first grade students at Carnegie Elementary began their science units focused on plants and organisms. This provided the perfect opportunity to integrate hydroponics into hands-on learning. Mrs. Leslie and Mrs. Price seamlessly wove this new approach into their lessons. Students observed plant growth in real time and were able to compare how plants grow in soil versus water, deepening their understanding of how living things thrive.
Beyond the classroom, hydroponics offers a broader impact. It introduces students to sustainable practices and presents an alternative way for families in the community to grow fresh food. By connecting science education with real-world applications, students are not only learning— they are gaining tools that can benefit their lives and their community.
Looking ahead, there is a shared vision to expand hydroponics throughout the district. With continued collaboration, Carlynton has the opportunity to cultivate a program that fosters innovation, sustainability, and a strong sense of community. What began as a single professional development session may soon grow into a district-wide initiative— one that plants the seeds for a healthier, more connected future.
Carnegie Elementary Renovation Project Update
The Carlynton School District continues to move forward with the Carnegie Elementary Renovation Project, an effort to modernize the building, improve safety and accessibility, and enhance learning spaces for students and staff. On April 29, the District hosted a community meeting to provide families and neighbors with an overview of the project timeline, safety procedures, and expected impacts during construction.
Construction will begin in late May 2026 and continue through the summer of 2027. The project is organized into five major phases with overlapping time frames designed to maintain normal school operations while completing improvements safely and efficiently.
Construction will begin with work in the existing auditorium area between May 25, 2026 and December 2026. Phase 1 includes removal of materials, completion of required abatement, and renovation of the auditorium space into a new library and learning areas. Phase 2 will focus on building upgrades during the summer of 2026, including corridor flooring, restroom improvements, window installation in the gymnasium, exterior waterproofing, and site improvements such as drainage, parking, and play areas.
The largest portion of the project will be the construction of a new building addition during Phase 3. This addition will include a multipurpose room, kitchen, restrooms, and a new entrance to the gymnasium. Work will occur primarily outside existing instructional areas to allow school operations to continue safely. Construction will begin in June 2026 and is scheduled for completion by July 2027. Phase 4 will begin in late 2026 and continue through the summer of 2027. This phase includes demolition of selected interior spaces and construction of new classrooms and learning areas in the lower level. Temporary walls will separate construction zones from occupied school areas.
Final work will be completed during the summer of 2027 in Phase 5 when students and staff are not in the building. Major work will include restroom renovations across multiple
floors, installation of a new secure vestibule at the gym entrance, completion of door and access control upgrades, roof replacements, and remaining site work. Scheduling this work during the summer allows the District to complete the most disruptive activities while school is not in session.
Student and staff safety and security remain the top priority. At the April 29 meeting, District administrators and Massaro CM Services, LLC reviewed the safety procedures that will be in place throughout construction. All contractors working on the project will be required to meet the same background clearance requirements as school employees, and construction areas will be fully separated from student and staff spaces using secure fencing and controlled access points. Architects from DRAW Collective were also present to answer clarifying questions.
The site logistics plan establishes clear safeguards, including restrictions on deliveries and equipment movement during student arrival and dismissal times. No deliveries or equipment will be permitted during morning drop-off or afternoon pick-up windows to ensure student safety.
Families can expect temporary adjustments to traffic patterns during construction. A designated drop-off and pick-up route will remain in place, and construction access points will be separated from student traffic areas. Prior to the start of the 2026 – 2027 school year, all parents will receive detailed information regarding any changes to traffic patterns and procedures.
The Carnegie Elementary Renovation Project represents a significant investment in the future of the school and the community. When completed, the project will provide updated learning environments, improved safety and security features, and modern building systems designed to support students for many years to come. The District will continue to share updates with families and the community as construction begins and each phase progresses.
arlynton-Montour
CARLYNTON SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
CARLYNTON-MONTOUR ❘ SUMMER 2026 31