Petersburg Pilot -

Summer break will start early for Stedman Elementary School students this year after the Alaska Department of Education Commissioner gave the Petersburg District School Board tentative approval to release students four days early so construction can begin on the elementary school’s exterior renovation project.

The $2.3 million project will require a large amount of shuffling of classrooms and supplies and the extra few days will allow staff to pack up and move before full access to the building is granted to contractors on

June 6.

Exterior wall demolition on areas that require the fewest classroom displacements will begin April 14. After which time, the library will be closed but limited book use will be available.

The main entrance to the elementary school will be located located on the east side of the building near the kindergarten classrooms.

Modifications to the bus drop off and pick up zones will also be made.

The early start was recommended in order for construction to be substantially complete by August 19 and to allow staff to move back into classrooms and prepare for the September 2 school start date.

The construction project will better insulate the building, add new carpeting and new lighting systems. Once complete, the project is expected to help reduce energy costs.

The State has funded 70 percent of the project and the additional 30 percent is being paid for by a federal matching grant from district funds.