Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Baldwin Union Free School District has officially begun a series of capital improvement projects across its schools, marking the start of construction with groundbreaking ceremonies at buildings throughout the district.
District administrators, Board of Education members, PTA representatives, former Superintendent Shari Camhi, former board member Mary Jo O'Hagan, architects and community members gathered to celebrate the projects, which will modernize classrooms, athletic facilities, cafeterias and infrastructure at schools districtwide.
Superintendent Anthony Mignella said the projects represent a long-term investment in Baldwin students and the future of the district.
"These groundbreaking ceremonies represent far more than the start of construction," Mignella said. "They symbolize our unwavering commitment to investing in the future of every Baldwin student. It was especially meaningful to celebrate this historic moment alongside our Board of Education, families, staff and community members, whose support makes these projects possible. Together, we are creating modern, innovative learning environments that will inspire students for generations to come."
At Baldwin High School, construction will focus on a new athletic complex on the northeast side of the campus near the existing tennis courts. The facility is designed to eventually connect directly to the high school building.
Plans call for a full-size gymnasium, a weight room and fitness center, dedicated instructional space for yoga and dance, additional parking for staff and visitors, and roadway improvements near the 400 Building to improve traffic flow and accessibility. The project also includes replacing sections of the school's roof.
Baldwin Middle School is also slated for significant improvements, including the installation of a new synthetic turf athletic field that will be used for lacrosse, soccer, field hockey, physical education classes and team practices. Additional work this summer includes roof renovations and continued upgrades to the school's electrical infrastructure.
The district's five elementary schools will also undergo extensive renovations centered on cafeteria and kitchen improvements.
Brookside Elementary School will receive a new cafeteria addition on the east side of the building. Lenox and Meadow elementary schools will each add new cafeterias and state-of-the-art kitchens on the west side of their buildings.
At Plaza Elementary School, construction is already underway to redesign the existing cafeteria and install a new kitchen within the current footprint.
Steele Elementary School will add a new cafeteria and state-of-the-art kitchen on the south side of the building near Grand Boulevard.
In addition to the dining upgrades, all elementary schools included in the project will receive building-wide electrical improvements designed to support the renovated facilities and future needs.
District officials said the capital projects are intended to improve learning environments, expand opportunities for athletics and wellness, modernize aging infrastructure, enhance safety and accessibility, and support the district's long-term sustainability goals.
Construction will continue in phases as the district works to minimize disruptions for students, staff and families. Officials thanked the community for supporting the projects and asked residents for patience while work is underway.
More information and project updates are available on the district's website at baldwinschools.org/capitalimprovements.
