Ogdesnburg school board discusses security renovation
OGDENSBURG — The architect in charge of restructuring the main entrance to the Ogdensburg Public school presented the foor plans and renovations to the Ogdensburg School Board of Education on Tuesday, Jan. 6.
The board has been discusssing the Breezeway Security Project fo several months and architect George Azrak, Jr. presented the floor plans and the renovations the elementary school will need to accomplish he school board's goal.
Azrak showed a photo of exterior transaction window that can be situated on the wall outside the main entrance of the building. Voice transmission will be done through stainless steel portal. The visitor will need to be cleared to enter the building. The purpose of renovating the front doors is to increase the safety and protection for the teachers and the students.
Azrak said that he can build up the masonry, enhance the structural framework around the doors, and increase the doors' strength.
The school board's concern is to make sure the glass is not only energy efficient, but thick enough to protect the school from break-ins.
School board members discussed with Azrak many possible options. Ms. School board secretary Marilyn Cuykendall informed the members the project will be done in phases. They will aim to strengthen the windows in each classroom, and all the other entrances to the school throughout these phases.
"Experience is what drives a project," Interim Superintendent Ernest Palestis said. "The plan is essential in order to keep the staff and students safe.
Palestis also suggested to the Ogdensburg Board of Education members that if the project moves forward, it should be formulated into a multi-year plan and broken into stages.
Palestis also said that it’s important that the Ogdensburg community knows the “Security Master Plan” for the Ogdensburg Elementary School.
This will give the community a sense of security for their children, and an opportunity for the community to support the changes.
"It's nice to see them get involved in things going on at the school," he said.