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Middle School Study Circle Report. Group “L” June 18, 2007. Our Recommendation. Renovation of the Parrot Avenue Middle School. Agenda. Our Guiding Principles Our Five Criteria Conclusion. Our Guiding Principles. Follow the Portsmouth Master Plan Demonstrate Fiscal Responsibility.
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Middle School Study Circle Report Group “L” June 18, 2007
Our Recommendation Renovation of the Parrot Avenue Middle School
Agenda • Our Guiding Principles • Our Five Criteria • Conclusion
Our Guiding Principles • Follow the Portsmouth Master Plan • Demonstrate Fiscal Responsibility
Our Guiding PrinciplesMaster Plan • Follow Portsmouth Master Plan • Shows true leadership • Retains core values/historic identity • Ensures successful/vibrant future • Master Plan supports renovation of Parrot Avenue Middle School
Guiding Principles Fiscal Responsibility • Demonstrate Fiscal Responsibility • Multiple designs & construction bids • Historic school renovation experts • Financial efficiencies through shared resources
Our Five Criteria • Environmental Impact • Sense of Community • Urban Sprawl Impact • Optimal Learning Environment • Healthy and safe environment
1. Environmental Impact The Parrot Avenue site limits the negative environmental impact. • Demonstrates environmental stewardship • Emits less greenhouse gasses • Can be energy efficient/meet LEED standards • Preserves historic built environment • Protects open space/natural resources
2. Sense of Community The Parrot Avenue site preserves and nurtures a sense of community. • Maintains walk-ability • Stays close to community institutions • Integrates kids with multi-generational community • Motivates taxpayers to support school budget • Teaches kids historic preservation • Inspire future generations to protect historic character
3. Urban Sprawl Impact The Parrot Avenue site arrests urban sprawl. • Re-use re-visits pre-WWII built environment • Compact city center/pedestrian amenities • Fewer cars/abundance of open space • Re-use lessens pressure on urban green space • Oppose encroachment on Alumni Field (Pierce Land) • Achieve first class renovation without sacrificing green space • Re-use can easily accommodate declining demographic projections • “The Granite State now ranks 3rd among states with the lowest % of preschoolers.” (Eagle Tribune)
4. Optimal Learning Environment The Parrot Avenue site can create an optimal learning environment. • Group “L” Definition • Great facilities, classrooms and equipment • Unique neighboring environment that supports developmental needs • High level of school and community pride • Access to cultural/historical aspects of city • Flexible & well maintained physical space • Adaptable to new technology as it arises • Adaptable - current and future educational philosophy • On-going funding for maintenance • Input from teachers, staff, students - transparent forum • Experts in equipment and facility needs
5. Healthy & Safe Environment The Parrot Avenue site ensures a healthy and safe environment. • Higher visibility ensures students remain well behaved and accountable • Close proximity to emergency services, police, fire • More walking - healthier for children • Less driving and bussing - healthier for environment • Parrot Avenue - environmentally safe/no toxicity questions Remain unconvinced that landfill site would be a safe place for a school.
Summary • Guiding Principles: • Follow the Portsmouth Master Plan • Demonstrate fiscal responsibility • Five Criteria - support Parrot Ave • Environmental Impact • Sense of Community • Urban Sprawl Impact • Optimal Learning Environment • Healthy & Safe Environment
Conclusion Renovate The Parrot Avenue Middle School Next Steps for The School Board: 1) Recommend renovation of Parrot Ave to City Council 2) Identify architectural firms/historic school renovation 3) Obtain multiple designs/construction cost estimates 4) Make process open & transparent with community
Conclusion Renovate The Parrot Avenue Middle School Why Follow Next Steps?: 1) Restore community’s confidence in school board process 2) Ensure all renovation design options fully explored 3) Ensure fiscal responsibility in renovation