D21 to launch more than $28.4 million in summer construction projects

Community Consolidated School District 21 will undertake more than $28.4 million in construction and facility improvement projects this summer, marking one of the most significant investments in district facilities in recent years.

Completed primarily during the summer months, the projects will focus on modernizing instructional spaces, addressing long-term infrastructure needs and preparing schools for future generations of students.

The largest investment will focus on transforming instructional spaces at the district’s three middle schools. Renovations will include science classrooms, family and consumer sciences labs, Project Lead the Way spaces, music rooms and student support areas. The work also includes new furnishings, equipment and technology upgrades designed to support modern teaching and learning better.

“These projects represent an investment not only in our buildings, but in the experiences our students have every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael Connolly. “Our goal is to create learning environments that inspire curiosity, collaboration and creativity while ensuring our facilities remain safe, functional and welcoming for everyone who walks through our doors.”

In addition to instructional upgrades, District 21 will complete several major facility projects to maintain and extend the life of its buildings.

Roofing work totaling almost $2 million is planned at Field, Frost and Kilmer. The district has also budgeted an additional $1.25 million for roof repairs at Cooper and Holmes.

Other projects include asbestos abatement at Cooper and London, new sound systems for music programs, furniture installations, appliance replacements and infrastructure improvements.

The construction work follows action by the Board of Education to authorize the transfer of funds that will help support the district’s long-term capital improvement plan. Much of the investment is intended to address aging infrastructure while creating learning environments that better support modern instructional practices.

“Our community expects us to be good stewards of its resources,” Connolly said. “These improvements help preserve our facilities while creating spaces that better reflect the needs of today’s learners and educators.”

Construction is expected to begin shortly after the end of the school year, with the majority of projects scheduled for completion before students return in August. District officials will provide updates throughout the summer as work progresses across the district’s schools.

The summer projects represent a comprehensive effort to improve both the educational experience for students and the long-term condition of District 21 facilities, while positioning schools to meet future instructional and operational needs.