Chesapeake Public Schools’ proposed $616 million facilities plan includes major school projects, but it has not completed public review or received a final board vote. Although the plan formally runs through 2037, the listed project details extend through 2032, according to the Daily Press.
The preschool location is not settled
The district aims to expand pre-K access by fall 2028. Earlier, officials proposed turning Norfolk Highlands Primary into a dedicated preschool center by fall 2027; the change would have required about 300 students to move to nearby schools, WHRO reported.
After families and neighbors opposed the proposal, the School Board voted unanimously on Aug. 24 to postpone a final decision and review additional resources, according to The Virginian-Pilot.
Proposed allocations for school projects
The plan sets aside roughly $101.5 million over five years to replace the Chesapeake Career Center. Planning Administrator Pedro Martinez said the district owns the site and that the proposed amount should be enough to complete the project, the Daily Press reported.
Carver Intermediate, which serves grades three through five, is slated for about $86.5 million in capital improvement funds to replace the building and convert it to a K-5 school. The city’s five-year capital improvement plan includes $84 million for the work, which district officials expect to cover most of the cost. Portlock Primary will also be evaluated for a possible K-5 conversion, according to the Daily Press.
The plan also projects $231,965,000 for replacement or extensive HVAC and roofing work at more than a dozen schools, the outlet reported.
Board review and next steps
A public hearing and work session are scheduled for Nov. 16. Another work session and the board’s final action are planned for Dec. 14, according to the Daily Press.
