The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District marked a significant milestone on Friday, Oct.17, celebrating the completion of its ambitious 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project with a grand opening ceremony at James H. Vernon Elementary School.
The comprehensive $29 million initiative brought transformative upgrades to all three district campuses, with improvements that promise to enhance educational opportunities for students across the community for years to come.
The wide-ranging project touched every corner of the district. At Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, a new PreK wing now provides dedicated space for the district's youngest learners. Oyster Bay High School received multiple new facilities, including a cutting-edge innovation lab and broadcasting studio, along with a modernized entrance façade and new turf field.
Vernon School saw perhaps the most extensive renovations, featuring a state-of-the-art music wing with two spacious orchestra and band rooms complemented by several smaller practice classrooms. The school also gained a new athletic center and a completely reimagined cafeteria, along with various smaller improvements including an updated playground.
In welcome news for taxpayers, the entire project came in approximately $2.5 million under budget – representing roughly 8% in savings from the initial projected cost.
The Vernon School celebration brought together district leadership and the wider community in the new athletic complex. Superintendent Francesco Ianni, Deputy Superintendent Maureen Raynor and Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni addressed the packed room, reflecting on the project's significance for students and families.
Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz attended the event and presented the district with a special citation in recognition of the achievement.
The evening showcased the talents that will flourish in these new spaces. The cast of Vernon's upcoming production of Matilda energized the crowd with a spirited performance of Revolting Children, while student representative Ava Fishberger shared her classmates' enthusiasm for the enhanced facilities.
Following the formal presentations, Superintendent Ianni and President Castrogiovanni joined Vernon Principal Anastasia Smith in cutting the ceremonial ribbon, then led attendees on a comprehensive tour of the renovated facilities.
In a creative display of the district's enhanced capabilities, guests entering the newly renovated cafeteria witnessed a live broadcast by Bay News Now, Oyster Bay High School's student news team. With reporters stationed in the athletic complex and music wing, anchors in the cafeteria, and a full technical crew managing the production, the students demonstrated professional-level broadcast journalism. The broadcast streamed live on Bay News Now's YouTube channel, showcasing the real-world applications of the district's new media facilities.
The evening concluded in the new music wing, where attendees were treated to moving performances by the Vernon band and orchestra under the direction of the school's music faculty – a fitting finale that brought the new music facilities to life.
The successful completion of the 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project represents a significant investment in the future of Oyster Bay-East Norwich students. From early childhood education spaces to advanced technology labs and professional-grade performance facilities, these improvements create an environment where students can explore their interests, develop their talents and prepare for future success.
As the district community gathered to celebrate this achievement, the excitement was evident throughout the evening – not just for the impressive new buildings and equipment, but for the expanded opportunities they represent for every student who walks through the doors.
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Date Added: 10/20/2025