Bring Lynbrook High School into the 21st century

The Lynbrook School District is seeking approval from voters next Tuesday for a $45 million bond that would enable the district to make upgrades to Lynbrook High School — the oldest building still functioning as a high school on Long Island.

It was built in 1922, and there have been no major renovations since the 1970s. The bond would help the district bring the high school into the 21st century.

The district expects 22 percent of the cost of the work to come in the form of state aid, while the remaining 78 percent would fall to residents, translating into $347 a year for the average homeowner during the 20-year life of the bond. (It includes an 18 percent “contingency factor” to address any unforeseen fluctuations in cost.)

Among other projects, the money would fund construction of a 646-seat performing arts center that would host district performances and other events; a state-of-the-art lab that would support the robotics program and the science, technology, engineering, arts and math (or STEAM) curriculum; and a student-support center.

The district’s current fourth-graders would be the first class to utilize the fully renovated high school.

District officials say that because of the scope of work that needs to be done, including it in the annual budget is not an option, because it would significantly raise taxes and potentially impact programs. Additionally, with a bond, the district would be able to take advantage of low interest rates to reduce the cost to taxpayers.

A high school is the center of the community. Students and residents would benefit mightily from the proposed renovations, and school administrators believe the high school should become a symbol of quality education and a source of pride for both students and the community — even more than it already is. We agree.

Polls will be open on Tuesday, at the high school and at North and South middle schools, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.