2025 BOND PROJECT

The Essexville-Hampton Public Schools has placed  a $13.5 million bond proposal on the May 6, 2025 ballot; if approved by voters, the bond proposal would provide funds to make improvements throughout the district’s buildings. This bond proposal, with an expected total project cost of $14.5 million (including a $1 million state grant), reflects extensive community feedback and prioritizes strategic improvements. Key initiatives include establishing a district STEM Center at Cramer Junior High School, reconfiguring grade levels across the district to optimize facility usage (PreK-2nd at Bush, 3rd-5th at Verellen, 6th-8th at Cramer, 9th-12th at Garber), expanding early childhood education access at Bush Elementary to meet the community's growing needs, upgrading athletic and arts facilities at Garber High School’s football/soccer field, and enhancing safety district-wide through a new PA system. The STEM center will be combined with the district offices to save money by closing and demolishing the Jaffe Administration building for green space and reducing utility costs. Approximately 75 additional parking spots will be added by the STEM Center that will be connected to Cramer Junior High School.  This plan addresses identified needs, improves educational opportunities, and helps to ensure that EHPS can provide better educational opportunities for all students.

What are the key components?

  • Reconfiguration of Grade Levels: Bush Elementary (Pre-K-2), Verellen Elementary (3-5), Cramer Junior High (6-8), and Garber High School (9-12).

  • STEM Center:  Establishment of a District STEM Center at Cramer Junior High, combined with district administration offices.  This would include the demolition of the Jaffe Administration building which is expected to result in operational cost savings to the District.

  • Expand Early Childhood:  Expansion of early childhood access at Bush Elementary, including increased preschool and infant/toddler programs.

  • Athletic Upgrades: at Garber High School, including expanded bleachers and artificial turf for regulation soccer matches and football. This will allow the band to move back into the bleachers.

  • Safety Upgrades:  New Public Address system throughout the district in all classrooms and offices to help ensure immediate communication in the event of an emergency.