District accelerates timeline for grade level changes, school renovations and programs
After careful consideration, district officials have modified the timeline for
Niskayuna’s middle school grade-level reconfiguration and the redesign of its
programs.
“Construction at Iroquois is proceeding ahead of schedule, as is the design,
engineering, and state approval process for projects at Van Antwerp,”
Superintendent Carl Mummenthey said. “With this in mind, and to obtain the
best value for the dollar, we will begin the multi-year process of grade-level
reconfiguration earlier than anticipated, beginning in September 2025.”
What changes are coming to the middle schools?
District residents successfully approved two capital projects in 2021 and 2024; these referenda provided funding to make substantial renovations and classroom additions at both Iroquois and Van Antwerp. The projects support the reimagining of a world-class Niskayuna middle school program and are a key component of the ongoing capital project work.
Construction at Iroquois is almost complete, with an expanded campus, 20
new classrooms, and updated instructional spaces throughout. Van Antwerp
renovations will begin this summer and include new classrooms, a new library
media center, music ensemble spaces, and a new kitchen and cafeteria.
Van Antwerp will eventually transform into a grades 5-6 campus and Iroquois will house grades 7-8 when all construction is complete. Niskayuna educators see the new configuration as a unified middle school program that focuses on team-based collaborative learning in future-ready classrooms.
Both schools will provide flexible learning spaces for students to meet and collaborate, with modern, updated technology that supports each building’s academic programs. School leaders also cite the potential for enhanced coursework, such as accelerated courses for eighth grade and world language offerings for fifth graders, all set in developmentally appropriate, welcoming learning environments that will promote better student outcomes.
“Niskayuna students deserve a modern, equitable middle school experience that fosters their growth and learning,” said Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction Jess Moore. “With the newly refurbished facilities and a reconfigured grade structure, we are committed to providing
an environment that supports expanded academic opportunities.”
What does the timeline look like?
Under the new timeline, changes will take place a year earlier than planned and construction at Van Antwerp will occur over two years instead of three.
2025-26 and 2026-27 school years
- Elementary schools will continue to house students in grades K-5.
- All sixth graders will attend Van Antwerp during renovations. Construction will be done in phases to minimize disruption.
- All seventh and eighth graders will attend Iroquois.
2027-28 school year
- Elementary schools will house students in grades K-4.
- All fifth and sixth graders will attend Van Antwerp.
- All seventh and eighth graders will attend Iroquois.
How will the district ensure a successful transition?
District officials recognize that this is a significant change for our school community and are already planning collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a successful transition.
The district’s Middle School Redesign Team, composed of administrators and teachers, has started developing a transition program, schedule, and plan to ensure student and family needs are met during the transition. Plans include transition/orientation activities for faculty, staff, students, and families, beginning this spring.
“We understand that this transition is significant, and we are dedicated to collaborating closely with teachers, staff, students and families,” Moore said. “By working together, we will ensure a smooth and supportive process that engages our community and meets everyone’s needs.”