Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Time: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Greater Amsterdam School District is proposing a $12 million capital project focused on improving student spaces, enhancing athletic facilities, and addressing long-standing infrastructure needs at Amsterdam High School.

Voters will consider this proposal on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as part of the annual school budget vote.

This project is designed to have no additional tax impact on district residents.

• 95% of the project is eligible for New York State building aid

• The remaining costs will be covered through:

  • Up to $7 million in bonds

  • Up to $5 million from the district’s capital reserve fund

This approach allows the district to make meaningful improvements without increasing the tax levy.

This proposal focuses on two main areas:

1. Cafeteria & Kitchen Renovation

• Modernized cafeteria layout with flexible seating

• Expanded food preparation and service areas

• Multiple serving stations (hot meals, salads, grab-and-go, breakfast)

• Addition of dishwashing equipment to reduce waste

• Installation of sound-absorbing materials to improve acoustics

2. Athletic Fields & Site Improvements

• Installation of two synthetic turf fields

  • Multi-purpose field (soccer, lacrosse, baseball)

  • Dedicated softball field

• Drainage and stormwater improvements to address wet field conditions

• Sidewalks, fencing, safety netting, dugouts and spectator seating

• Infrastructure installed for future field lighting

3. District Property Planning & Community Partnerships

Curie (Marie Curie) Property – Future Development

• Exploration of opportunities to repurpose or redevelop district-owned land

• Focus on long-term, sustainable use of underutilized property

• Goal of maximizing value while supporting community needs

Truex Road Property – Head Start Partnership

• Ongoing lease agreement with Head Start

• Plan to transition toward a potential sale of the property

• Supports continued early childhood programming in the community

• Allows the district to:

  • Reduce long-term maintenance obligations

  • Reinvest resources into student-focused initiatives

Improving Student Experience

• Increased participation in school meals requires updated facilities

• Modern cafeteria design supports student comfort and efficiency

• Expanded food options align with student preferences

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

• Existing outdoor fields experience consistent drainage issues

• Limited usability impacts physical education and athletics

• Improvements will allow for year-round use of outdoor space

Equity in Athletics

• Creation of a dedicated softball field provides equitable access to high-quality facilities

Since partnering with Capital Region BOCES in 2024, the district has seen increased participation in school meals among students and staff.

This project will:

• Expand food service capacity

• Provide more meal choices

• Improve the overall dining environment

• Support a transition to reusable dishware to reduce waste

The project will transform currently underutilized space into functional athletic areas by:

• Installing advanced drainage systems

• Creating durable, multi-use turf surfaces

• Improving accessibility with connecting sidewalks

• Providing safe and organized spaces for teams and spectators

Grassy areas will remain available for additional recreational use.

If approved by voters:

• Fall 2026: Construction begins on athletic fields

• Spring 2027: Athletic fields completed

• Summer 2027: Cafeteria and kitchen renovations begin

The cafeteria work is scheduled during the summer to avoid disruption to students.

This project was developed using:

• The district’s five-year building condition survey

• Ongoing evaluation of student needs and facility use

• Input from district leadership and operational teams

The Board of Education has completed required steps under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) to move the project forward for voter consideration.