Schools don’t go quiet when the final bell rings in June. In fact, that’s when the facilities department ramps up its efforts to make improvements before school reopens.
This year, Atlantic City Public Schools is investing approximately $30 million in renovations and capital improvement projects across the district, continuing its long-term commitment to providing safe, modern and welcoming learning environments for students and staff.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small said the summer construction season is an important opportunity to invest in the district’s future while students are away.
“Every improvement we make to our schools is an investment in our students and the quality of their educational experience,” Dr. Small said. “From upgrading classrooms and science labs to improving HVAC systems, restrooms and athletic facilities, these projects reflect our commitment to providing learning environments where students can thrive and staff can do their best work.”
The district follows a comprehensive long-range facilities plan that prioritizes projects based on building needs, infrastructure improvements and the goal of maintaining safe, efficient and modern school facilities.
Among the major projects scheduled for completion this summer are:
Atlantic City High School
- Restroom renovation
- Locker room renovation
“Every improvement we make at Atlantic City High School is an investment in the pride our students feel about their school,” said Principal Dr. Constance Days Chapman. “Our bathroom facilities had remained largely unchanged since the school opened in 1994. As a member of the Class of 2003, I remember when they still felt brand new, so it’s exciting to see these long-overdue renovations become a reality.”
Dr. Days-Chapman said the upgrades create a cleaner, more welcoming environment that reflects the excellence expected from students and staff. They also reinforce Viking pride, she said.
“I’m also especially excited about the locker room renovations. Our student athletes dedicate countless hours to representing Atlantic City High School with excellence, and they deserve facilities that reflect their hard work and commitment,” Dr. Days-Chapman said. “Although these projects are aesthetically appealing, they also show our students that they matter and that we are committed to providing them with spaces they can be proud of every day.”
Brighton Avenue School
• Electrical upgrades
• Turf playground installation
• Boiler replacement
• Gym floor replacement
Acting Principal Tracey J. Allen said the electrical upgrades would make a world of difference.
“When it’s complete, each classroom will be able to support independent air conditioning units,” Allen said. “That’s exciting because it will add to the comfort of the students and the staff.”
Chelsea Heights School
• HVAC System Renovation
• Cafetorium/Gynaisum Floor Replacement
Principal James Knox said the new flooring and HVAC renovation give the school a much-needed upgrade.
“The multipurpose space looks much brighter,” Knox said. “Hopefully the students will come back and find it refreshing.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex
• Office renovation
• Locker replacement
• Lobby floor replacement
• Staff restroom renovation
“I’m excited that the kids will have a space that looks new and fresh,” said Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex Principal Jodi Burroughs. “They deserve that, and the parents, who are alumni, will be excited.”
New York Avenue School
• HVAC replacement
• Restroom renovation
New York Avenue School Principal Kendall Williams said the construction crew was working hard to finish the work.
“They’re doing a great job,” Williams said. “We replaced HVAC in every classroom. The kids are going to come into the building, and when it’s warm, the air conditioning units will be suitable, and when it’s cold, the heating will be sufficient.”
Richmond Avenue School
• Boiler replacement
Richmond Avenue School Principal Jason Grimes said he anticipated that students and staff would both appreciate the upgrade.
“We’re always looking to create the most comfortable learning environment for our students,” Grimes said. “We’re very excited that the district is staying on top of the school’s needs with the upgrades, and we can’t wait to welcome back the students into a building that is both comfortable and safe.”
Sovereign Avenue School
• Locker renovation
• Gymnasium Floor
Sovereign Avenue School Vice Principal Bonnie Lynch said the school would greatly benefit from the facelift.
“I think that the improvements are amazing,” Lynch said. “It allows our students to have something that is fresh and new.”
Texas Avenue School
• Roof repairs
Principal Lina Gil said Texas Avenue School has seen substantial renovations through the years, and the roof repairs are the latest upgrade.
“The renovations have been going great, and we look forward to continuously improving the school,” Gil said. “We’ve been doing a lot in the past few years. All these renovations make everyone excited to come back to school to a better environment.”
Uptown School Complex
•
- Locker room renovation
- Main entrance renovation
- Science lab renovation
Uptown School Complex Principal Dr. Ananda Davis-Wright said she was pleased with the changes.
“I am so excited about what is on the other side of this huge undertaking,” Dr. Davis-Wright said. “The front vestibule is going to add an extra level of security. The front office is going to receive a much-needed makeover. It’s part of what keeps the school up to date.”
Dr. Small said the summer renovation project has been successful because of the forethought that went into the planning process.
“We are grateful for the careful planning that allows us to continue moving our district forward while preparing our schools to welcome students back this fall,” Dr. Small said.
The first day of class for students is Thursday, September 3, 2026.
