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District Advances School Modernization and Construction Program

District Advances School Modernization and Construction Program


Redwood City School District (RCSD) is progressing to Phase II of its School Modernization and Construction program, following community approval of Measure S in November 2022. During its regularly scheduled meeting on April 17, 2024, the RCSD Board of Trustees heard an update on the program.

Van Pelt Construction Services Chosen: Van Pelt Construction Services (VPCS) secured the project management role after a rigorous Request for Proposal (RFP) process.

Winter Initiatives: During the winter, Van Pelt Construction Services collaborated with RCSD staff on several fronts:

  • Analyzing energy efficiency systems.

  • Conducting RFPs for contractors.

  • Assessing potential construction sites.

  • Engaging with the Bond Oversight Committee.

Community Engagement: This spring, RCSD community members will have opportunities to provide input as RCSD revises the Facilities Master Plan, first drafted during the 2013-14 school year.

Focus on Safety: Phase I feedback emphasized the community’s strong emphasis on safety. The District heard the message loud and clear installing, repairing, and upgrading several campus safety features at all school campuses.

Upcoming Priorities:
During the April 17 Board meeting, School Board President Lawson highlighted forthcoming requests for climate-related input, particularly regarding HVAC systems for cooling.

Superintendent Dr. Baker underscored the need for restroom facilities near Transitional Kindergarten (TK) classrooms, following recent TK program expansion.

Financial System Approval: As part of the item on the Board agenda, the Board approved a Key Analytics Financial System for the Bond Program at a cost of $376,250, aimed at streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and saving staff time.
 

Get Caught Up with Other Recent Kennedy Updates:

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Kennedy Logo

Lighting across our campuses has been upgraded to more energy-efficient systems helping us reduce energy consumption while keeping spaces well-lit for learning. The Board of Trustees approved Phase 2 of the District’s HVAC Upgrade Project that'll replace HVAC units that are more than 20 years old, adding air conditioning to classrooms, and installing upgraded control systems to improve energy efficiency and overall building management.

Read More about March 2026 Kennedy Modernization and Construction Update
Kennedy Logo

RCSD is continuing campus upgrades through its Energy Efficiency Project, including new energy-efficient lighting systems and planned HVAC improvements. Updated lighting uses motion and sound sensors to automatically adjust based on daylight and room use, helping reduce energy consumption across schools. In addition, Phase 2 HVAC upgrades will bring modern, climate-controlled classrooms to select schools beginning in Summer 2026, improving comfort and learning environments for students and staff.

Read More about January 2026 Kennedy Modernization and Construction Update
Construction Plans

During the October 16 Board Study Session, the Board of Trustees presented three conceptual scenarios outlining possible approaches for implementing Measure S projects identified in the Facilities Master Plan (FMP). 

Read More about Following HVAC Upgrades and Lighting Improvements, District Begins Facilities Plan Implementation Talks
HVAC System

The Board of Trustees approved multiple initiatives aimed at improving climate control in local schools. These measures are part of ongoing efforts to optimize learning conditions for students across the district, a priority identified early last fall.

Read More about As Summer 2025 Approaches, District Advances Climate Control Projects Across Schools by Quickly Approving Final Steps for Implementation
Audit Documents

The performance audit revealed a positive assessment of the district's management, with no significant problems or disagreements identified. Spending on bond projects was found to align with what voters approved, ensuring accountability and transparency. Additionally, the audit confirmed that payroll and procurement procedures adhere to legal requirements, and no significant accounting issues or unreported financial problems were discovered. Overall, the audit concluded that the bond funds are well-managed and used appropriately.

Read More about School Board Hears Audit Results: 2015 Measure T and 2022 Measure S Bond Funds