MASTER PLAN 2025
STRAFFORD R-VI SCHOOL DISTRICT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2013 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN.................. ...................6-11 2025 STRAFFORD MASTERPLAN.............................................................................12-23 PROJECT COST OPINION FOR 10 YEAR VISION........................................................24-25 (Completed as Promised)
NARRATIVE
Strategic Vision for Educational Excellence The Strafford School District has undertaken the 2025 master planning process as part of its commitment to fostering a thriving educational environment for students, staff, and the broader community. This process serves as a roadmap to navigate the district’s future challenges and opportunities, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that the district remains prepared to meet the evolving needs of education. In 2013, Strafford School District developed a master plan to enhance campus security and expand classroom spaces. All promised projects have been completed along with additional renovations funded by prudent planning. Since the 2013 Master Plan, the following projects have occurred: • New 69,000 sq ft Elementary School • New Secure Entrances at the High School and the Middle School • Relocation of the District Offices from a trailer to the High School Building • New Entrance to the Gymnasium • New Ticket booth and entrance to the football stadium • Secure entrance at the north side of high school • New Hyper Activities and Athletic Facility with classroom spaces
• Science Classroom renovations • Library Renovation and Expansion
• New FEMA storm shelter and Dining area at High School • Early Childhood Center renovations and classroom additions • The addition of approximately 200 student parking spaces
The School District has again hired Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective to create a vision and a plan for the next ten years. The master planning initiative was developed to address key objectives such as continued improvements to the educational facilities, enhancing student outcomes, and embracing innovative teaching methodologies. The process is comprehensive, involving input from educators, parents, students, and community stakeholders. By creating a participatory and transparent planning framework, the district aims to uphold its values of collaboration and inclusivity. FACILITY UPGRADES One of the central aspects of the 2025 plan is the continued modernization of school facilities. Upgrades include the installation of advanced technology systems, improvements in accessibility, and the creation of flexible learning spaces designed to accommodate various teaching styles.
The Strafford School District has outlined the following projects as part of the next phase of improvements: • Max Evans Addition/Renovation, including weight room, wrestling room, restrooms for softball, football locker room, existing locker renovations, and new concessions. • New Stadium Seating/Press box & Indian Plaza/Football Turf: Includes grandstand-side stadium seating, press box, coaches’ box, broadcast booth, light poles, and new LED lighting. • Baseball & Softball Ticket/Concessions/Press box, featuring baseball and softball press boxes, restrooms, visitor locker room for baseball/cross country/football, and concessions. • New field turf at Baseball and Softball Athletic Fields. • Theater Auditorium Ticket Booth Addition/ADA Accessibility: Encompasses an additional vestibule/lobby area and ticket office. • Agriculture Building Exterior Renovation.
• ADA Accessible Asphalt Playground at Elementary School. • Upgrade Athletic Practice Field & Area Enclosing Fencing. • Roundabout and Road Extension. • New Bus Maintenance Building and New Parking Areas. • Classroom Additions at Theater Auditorium and Agriculture. • Proposed New Parking Lots Surfacing and Striping. • New Parking with Underground Detention. PURPOSE AND GOALS At its core, the 2025 master plan outlines strategic goals to:
• Modernize Facilities: Upgrade existing infrastructure to support modern learning environments, including technology-integrated classrooms. • Expand Capacity: Address growing student populations with scalable solutions such as new buildings or extensions. • Enhance Curriculum: Innovate educational programs to better prepare students for higher education and the workforce. • Promote Sustainability: Incorporate eco-friendly practices in school operations and facilities. • Strengthen Community Engagement: Encourage active participation of community members in decision-making processes. The Strafford School District’s 2025 master planning process embodies a forward-thinking approach to education. By addressing current challenges and anticipating future needs, the district is poised to create a sustainable and innovative educational framework. As the plan unfolds, the engagement of community members and stakeholders will remain pivotal to its success, ensuring that Strafford continues to shine as a beacon of educational excel- lence.
2013 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN (COMPLETED)
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Since its completion in 2016, Strafford Elementary School has played a vital role in strengthening our community’s commitment to quality education. Funded through local support, the facility provides a well-rounded learning environment that includes a multipurpose gymnasium with a performance stage, a modern library, a full-service kitchen and cafeteria, and over thirty classrooms. It also features dedicated spaces for music, art, computer instruction, and specialized classrooms that support individualized learning needs. Importantly, the school includes hardened classrooms designed to keep students safe by providing secure shelter during severe weather events.
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The new secured entrance at the High School provides a controlled, visibly monitored point of entry, directly connected to a centralized office complex that consolidates all administrative functions. This welcoming and secure foyer also connects the existing middle and high school classroom wings through a central vestibule, illuminated by clerestory windows and offering an impromptu space for study and collaboration. The project also included an upgraded school nurse’s facility and enabled the adaptive reuse of the former elementary building—now serving as additional classroom space for both middle and high school students. This thoughtful investment enhances student safety, improves day-to-day operations, and maximizes the use of existing district resources. Following the High School Secure Entrance project, the District Office was relocated into the main High School/Middle School building through a low-impact renovation project. This move created direct secure access between the Superintendent’s Office and building principals, encouraging better communication and stronger administrative support. Relocating the office from temporary trailers also allowed the district to centralize security and IT resources, improving both efficiency and campus safety. Additionally, an existing high school classroom was repurposed into a dedicated School Board meeting room—enhancing community access, engagement, and transparency in district operations.
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A complex but impactful project connected the former elementary classroom wing to the existing Middle School, creating a secure and unified entry point. The design addressed challenges such as differing floor elevations and required fire separations between buildings, all while maintaining a central and accessible location for students and families. A key goal was shifting the main entrance to McCabe Street, establishing a safer and more consistent point of entry for the campus. The project reinforced the district’s design language by using consistent materials and matching the secured vestibule style seen elsewhere on campus. This addition also provided a much-needed teacher workroom and, importantly, completed a fully enclosed circulation path— allowing students to move between buildings without using exterior walkways.
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A small but effective entrance was added to the west side of the existing gymnasium, offering improved protection for patrons entering the facility and helping to block harsh winter sunlight from shining directly onto the gym floor—creating a safer environment for physical activity. As part of the project, traffic routes were clearly marked to improve separation between pedestrian and vehicular movement, enhancing overall campus safety.
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An efficient combination ticket booth and restroom facility welcomes spectators to the Strafford athletic complex. The centrally located ticket booth is flanked by an entrance gate that provides a controlled access point to the venue. In addition to standard men’s and women’s restrooms, the facility includes a family-accessible stall designed to support elderly patrons and families needing extra space or assistance
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While working to create a secure entrance on the north side of campus connecting the High School and Middle School, Strafford Schools was awarded a co-funded FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) grant. This funding enabled the construction of a shared entrance and a fully reinforced storm shelter capable of housing all 1,045 students— providing protection for the entire campus during severe weather events. The shelter is self-sufficient, equipped with a backup generator, and also functions as a larger, upgraded cafeteria that continues to utilize the existing high school kitchen. In partnership with local authorities, Strafford Schools has generously made the facility available to the community during non-school hours, further enhancing public safety and emergency preparedness. The new Student Parking Lot was completed alongside street improvements to McCabe. The project included added over 200 parking spaces, introduced a third traffic lane on McCabe for parent pick-up and drop-off, and included new sidewalks on both sides of the street. A key but less visible benefit was the advancement of the district’s comprehensive stormwater management system. This included upgrades to the detention basin on the middle school’s front lawn and improved culvert connections to the underground stormwater system at the elementary school.
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ADDITIONAL PROJECTS COMPLETE, NOT DIRECTLY CONNECTED TO BOND FUNDING:
Campus conversion to natural gas
City Utilities of Springfield extended natural gas service into the City of Strafford. In response, the Strafford School District replaced all existing propane-fired equipment and upgraded the gas piping infrastructure, converting the entire system to natural gas. This provided a more stable, efficient, and cost-effective energy solution.
Air Conditioning for Max Evans Gymnasium
In 2014, air conditioning was added to the Max Evans Gymnasium. This upgrade not only provided cooling for the facility but also significantly improved heating performance and indoor air quality in this historic space.
Interior Renovations for both the North and South classroom wings
Following the construction of the new K–5 Elementary School, the existing north wing classrooms were converted from elementary spaces into middle and high school classrooms. These renovations included updated amenities and the installation of a centralized air conditioning system using efficient Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) units. The VRF systems provide individual room control while reporting to a central energy management system to support long-term energy conservation. The project also modernized restroom facilities and refreshed common areas, giving the space a more professional and updated appearance.
In addition to the classroom upgrades, the renovation added a dual school nurse’s office featuring three individual patient units and a private toilet with shower, a dedicated computer lab, and new counseling areas—enhancing health services, centralizing computer instruction, and supporting the academic and mental well-being of all Strafford students.
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HPER Building
The colossal 42,000-square-foot indoor practice facility provides a versatile environment—large enough to house nearly half a football field under one roof. This multi-use space continues to expand its role, supporting a wide range of activities including indoor recess, physical education classes, marching band practice, and athletic training for football, baseball, softball, and track. The facility is equipped with indoor batting cages and a divider curtain, allowing flexible use for multiple programs at once. Strafford Schools was an early innovator in developing this type of facility, inspiring several neighboring districts to pursue similar
projects. The building also includes three classrooms, office space, and supporting restrooms, making it a comprehensive resource for both athletics and academics.
Early Education Addition
The most recent campus improvement is the addition to the Early Childhood Education Building. This 18-classroom expansion supports the growing Strafford community by expanding pre- kindergarten programs and relocating kindergarten students to this facility—freeing up space at the main Elementary School. The addition also introduces dedicated classrooms for art, STEM, and music, enhancing early learning experiences. Several of the new classrooms are designed as storm shelters, providing protection not only for students in the new wing but for all children in the Early Childhood Education Building.
Additional amenities include a small gymnasium, a teacher breakroom, individual offices, and resource storage areas—further supporting both instructional programs and staff needs.
High School Science Lab and Library Renovation
In 2020, the existing high school science labs were renovated with new lab desks, chemical hoods, updated flooring, and improved exhaust systems. These upgrades supported a modern science curriculum and gave students more opportunities for hands-on learning. The renovation also included a new, centralized chemical storage and prep area with added safety features like an emergency shower and a single-point natural gas shutoff. Adjacent classrooms were also refreshed to create a more cohesive and functional learning environment. Across the hall, the high school library was completely remodeled under the same project. The updated space reflects the changing
role of modern libraries, offering flexible areas for testing, group work, and multi-use activities. Improvements included a new main entrance, media worktables, a centralized checkout desk, and a dedicated meeting room for small groups or individual testing. This renovation was driven by the library staff’s goal of expanding the library’s role in supporting student learning.
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
PROJECT LEGEND
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A key priority identified in the 2025 Master Plan will be the expansion and modernization of the district’s athletic support facilities—beginning with a new, updated weight room. This upgraded training space will serve a dual role: it will function as a physical education classroom for both middle and high school students and will act as a core training facility for nearly all athletic programs. In addition to the weight room, the project will include renovations to the locker room facilities and the addition of shared locker rooms for visiting teams, cross country events, and officials. The Max Evans Addition will also provide much-needed restrooms for the softball field, additional support spaces for the athletic complex, and will help frame future upgrades to the stadium bleachers. The introduction of a turf field at the Strafford athletic complex will enhance accessibility, reduce maintenance costs, and significantly improve year-round playability. Unlike natural grass, turf will provide a consistent, durable surface that holds up in inclement weather— allowing for more practice time, fewer cancellations, and a better overall experience for students and the community. These upgrades, along with planned improvements to the Max Evans Addition, will culminate in the creation of Indian Plaza—a pedestrian-friendly hub that will unify all athletic facilities. Indian Plaza will encourage shared use during sporting events and will provide students, families, and visitors with a more immersive and engaging game-day experience. As part of this broader vision, the press box will also undergo renovation and expansion to better serve staff and support operations during events. New ticket, concessions, and press box buildings for the baseball and softball fields will represent an investment in both student op - portunity and community pride. These facilities will create a more complete and functional game-day experience—providing shelter and convenience for spectators, a professional environment for staff and media, and a welcoming first impression for visiting teams and families. Dedicated concessions and restrooms will improve comfort and accessibility, while the new press box will support scorekeeping, announcements, and media coverage with modern amenities. These improvements will reflect the same level of commitment demonstrated in other campus upgrades and will ensure that Strafford’s student-ath- letes and fans have facilities that match their talent and dedication.
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
PROJECT LEGEND
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Turf at both the baseball and softball fields will offer a smart, long-term solution for modern athletic programs. By providing a consistent, durable surface that will withstand heavy use and challenging weather, turf will significantly increase field availability throughout the year. It will reduce the need for ongoing maintenance such as mowing, seeding, and irrigation, allowing resources to be redirected elsewhere. While the initial investment will be higher than natural grass, the long-term savings and expanded usability will make turf a practical and popular choice—one that will align with trends already embraced by many high schools across the region.
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Strafford’s centrally located auditorium will continue to be a point of pride—hosting first-class musical and theatrical performances that showcase the incredible talent of our students. But while the performances will shine, the audience experience has often fallen short. Patrons have been left waiting in the rain, and the current ticketing and entry setup does not reflect the excellence happening on stage. This project will change that. By improving the entrance, adding a dedicated ticketing area, and enhancing accessibility, we will give audiences the welcoming, weather-protected experience they deserve—from the moment they arrive to the final curtain call. It will be time to bring the “front of house” up to the same high standard as what happens inside. Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of the Strafford community— and the district’s agricultural education program will continue to reflect that deep-rooted legacy. This project will transform the current ag building into a modern, purpose-driven learning environment that will meet the evolving needs of tomorrow’s students and the future of the industry. Planned improvements will include updated lab spaces, increased natural light, essential roof repairs, and a full rebranding of the facility—from a shared maintenance space to a dedicated agricultural education center. As the world of agriculture becomes more complex and technology-driven, so too must the spaces where students learn. This investment will ensure that Strafford’s students are equipped with the skills, tools, and environment they need to lead in the future ag economy
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
PROJECT LEGEND
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An ADA-accessible elementary playground at Strafford Elementary will promote inclusivity, safety, and foster social interaction for all children, regardless of their abilities. It will ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, can participate in outdoor play and develop essential social and emotional skills. This investment will create an environment where every child feels welcome, supported, and empowered to engage, learn, and grow through play.
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Investing in a new sports practice field will be a powerful way to support the health, development, and spirit of both students and the wider community. Also enhance safety through removal of the traffice between the football field and practice field. These fields will become essential spaces where students engage in physical education, build teamwork skills, and prepare for athletic competitions—fostering discipline, inclusion, and school pride. Beyond the school day, these same fields will serve the broader Strafford community by offering much-needed open space for recreation, fitness, and gathering. This project won’t just be about athletics—it will be about creating a shared asset that promotes safety, wellness, connection, and community pride. This project will be designed to improve safe routes throughout the Strafford campus, making it safer and easier for students to walk or bike to school. By addressing traffic patterns and enhancing connectivity, the project will reduce hazardous conditions and improve overall accessibility. Key improvements will include traffic- calming measures such as crosswalks , roadway modifications, and expanded parking—all aimed at slowing vehicles and improving pedestrian safety. These upgrades will not only enhance day-to-day school operations but will also create stronger connections between the campus, downtown, and surrounding neighborhoods—promoting a safer, more walkable Strafford for students and families alike.
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
PROJECT LEGEND
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As the Strafford School District continues to grow, so will the demand for essential support services. This project will directly address those needs while also positioning the district for future expansion. With the introduction of the HPER facilities on the west campus, this area will become a key hub for long-term development. The addition of new parking will not only support current use but will also lay the groundwork for future facilities—ensuring that the west campus is ready to meet the evolving needs of students, staff, and the community.
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This project will focus on strengthening both the performing arts and agricultural education programs by creating dedicated, collaborative, and future-ready learning spaces. A key component will include unifying the music and theater departments under one roof, directly connecting them to the performance auditorium. This will improve coordination between staff, enhance instructional opportunities, and reduce the need for students to cross McCabe Street—boosting both efficiency and safety. Equally important will be the expansion of laboratory and classroom space for the agricultural program. Modern agriculture will no longer be limited to traditional farming—it will include areas like plant science, animal health, ag mechanics, environmental systems, and ag business. The current facilities will no longer meet the demands of this evolving curriculum. By adding purpose-built lab spaces, students will gain hands-on experience with the tools, technologies, and methods used in today’s agricultural industry. This investment will ensure that Strafford students are not only career- and college-ready but also prepared to lead in a rapidly advancing ag economy that remains vital to our region.
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2025 STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN
PROJECT LEGEND
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While parking lots may not be the flashiest investment, they will play a critical role in campus safety and efficiency. Well-designed and strategically placed parking areas will reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and create a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors. Whether it’s during daily drop-off and pick-up, special events, or routine school operations, updated parking infrastructure will help minimize accidents, reduce stress, and enhance the overall experience for everyone on campus. This project will support the growth of the district while prioritizing safety and accessibility.
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In the growing Strafford school district, making the most of available land will be critical—and underground detention systems will offer a smart, efficient solution. By placing stormwater detention beneath parking lots, schools will be able to effectively manage runoff while preserving surface space for more visible and impactful uses, such as building expansions, athletic fields, or green spaces. These systems will temporarily store excess rainwater during storms, preventing surface flooding, erosion, and strain on municipal infrastructure. Unlike traditional detention basins, which can take up valuable real estate and often require fencing and maintenance, underground systems will be hidden from view and will not interfere with daily campus operations. This approach will support both environmental responsibility and long- term planning, allowing the district to meet regulatory requirements while keeping its campus attractive, flexible, and future-ready.
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STRAFFORD MASTER PLAN PROJECT COST OPINION FOR 10 YEAR VISION
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