$29M Project For Schools Is Complete; Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District Celebrates

EAST NORWICH, NY — Multiple schools in the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District received facelifts with the $29 million initiative from the 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project.

To celebrate the completion of this project, James H. Vernon Elementary School held a grand opening ceremony on Friday.

This $29 million initiative, which stayed $2.5 million under budget, was voted on in December 2021, and passed with a vote of 423 to 232, according to Oyster Bay-East Norwich Public Schools.

The measure allowed three district campuses to receive upgrades, with hopes that the improvements will increase educational opportunities for students, a release said.

Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School received a new pre-K wing.

Oyster Bay High School received new facilities, such as an innovation lab and broadcasting studio, as well as a new turf field.

Vernon School gained a music wing with two large orchestra and band rooms, and smaller practice classrooms. The school also received a new athletic center, renovated cafeteria, and an updated playground.

District leaders and town officials attended the Vernon School celebration, including Superintendent Francesco Ianni, Deputy Superintendent Maureen Raynor, Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni, and Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees were given a tour of the upgraded facilities and new additions.

Students gave their appreciation for the renovations by showing the real-world applications with their talents and skills, a release said.

The cast of Vernon School’s upcoming production of “Matilda” gave a performance.

Oyster Bay High School’s student news team gave a live broadcast for all to witness, in the renovated cafeteria. Students took on the roles of anchors, technical crew, and reporters, all showcasing their broadcast journalism skills and appreciation for the new media facilities, a release said.

To conclude the event, Vernon’s band and orchestra performed for the attendees, bringing the new music facilities to life, a release said.