Columbus City Schools unveiled the newly renovated Salem Elementary on Aug. 19 to cap off more than $60 million investment in schools across the district this summer.
The $6 million renovation at Salem Elementary in Northland was among the dozens of projects completed over the summer at CCS buildings across the district, part of capital spending enabled by the successful 2023 $100 million levy approved by voters. The school received refreshed classrooms, hallways and bathrooms, a new playground as well as an outdoor classroom designed with input from students.
Superintendent Angela Chapman said during the event that the renovations showed that "we continue to invest in schools that support teaching and learning, and strengthen neighborhoods.
"The
real celebration begins when students walk in, look around and they know this beautiful new learning environment is just for them," Chapman said.
Board President Antoinette Miranda said the district has an "unwavering commitment" to creating "equitable, 21st century learning environments for all of our students."
"I want to highlight that Salem Elementary School, that is exemplifying our vision for maintaining and improving our facilities," Miranda said. "It's clear that when we invest in our schools, we see positive outcomes that benefit both students and the community."
In 2023, voters approved a $100 million operating and improvements levy, which gave the district over $60 million each year in property tax revenue to invest in capital improvements.
Over the summer, the district also completed the following projects:
- HVAC replacements and upgrades at 11 schools and facilities - $7 million
- Roof replacements and exterior repairs at 11 schools across the District - $3 million
- New elementary school playgrounds at six sites - $4 million
- Outdoor athletic facility improvements at Beechcroft High School, Northland High School and Walnut Ridge High School - $8 million
- Auditorium and gymnasium improvements at Hilltonia Middle School and Marion-Franklin High School- $ 3.6 million
- Asphalt and parking lot improvements at 11 sites across the District - $1 million
- Investments in learning environments, including general renovations at Salem Elementary School and Walnut Ridge High School, school furniture upgrades and other improvements - $20 million
Cole Behrens covers K-12 education and school districts in central Ohio. Have a tip? Contact Cole at cbehrens@dispatch.com or connect with him on X at @Colebehr_report
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Schools touts Salem Elementary refresh as part of $60M summer spend
