Haddonfield School District Updates Projects Including High School Auditorium and Tatum Elementary Media Center

The Haddonfield Board of Education (BOE) convened for its regular meeting on August 21, 2025, to discuss various ongoing projects and updates within the district. The meeting commenced with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a statement regarding public meeting notifications as mandated by the Open Public Meetings Act.

The first major agenda item was a progress update on the district's referendum projects presented by representatives from Land Associates. They reported significant advancements in several construction and design initiatives. Notably, the 1890s building project is nearing the bidding phase, with a tentative award date set for October 16, 2025, and a substantial completion target of July 2026. The design for the high school auditorium and C-wing classroom renovations is also progressing, with bids expected by October 30, 2025.

The representatives highlighted a redesign of the Hopkins Turf Field project, which will retain the existing structures rather than relocating them, resulting in a more efficient site layout with minimal loss of parking. This project is on track for a January 2026 award and completion by June 2026.

Additionally, updates were provided on the Tatum and Haddon Elementary School Media Center projects, both scheduled for bidding on October 30, 2025, with substantial completion expected by August 31, 2027. The high school’s A and C wing window replacements are also in the design phase, with plans to meet with the historic preservation commission to discuss the use of aluminum windows.

The meeting also covered projects currently out for bid, including the auditorium project, which received favorable bids and is set for substantial completion by April 17, 2026. The timeline for construction will be influenced by the HVAC unit replacement, which is critical to the project’s schedule.

Concerns were raised regarding the impact of ongoing construction on students and staff, particularly regarding classroom accessibility and the potential for disruptions. The administration assured that plans would be communicated effectively to minimize any inconvenience during the transition.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing educational facilities while addressing community concerns. The board plans to continue monitoring project progress and will provide updates in future meetings.