Building expansion FAQs

Rationale

Why do we even want to expand?  Aren't we better off as a small, tight-knit community rather than a larger, more impersonal school like the government or other area private schools? 

While the school is grateful for its current facilities, they are inadequate to service the current student body with excellence -- irrespective of growth. The school will soon have to create waiting lists, not because the class sizes are of an unmanageable size for teachers, but because the physical space of most classrooms themselves cannot seat more than 14-16 students. Teachers have done a tremendous service to students by finding creative ways to utilize the space effectively. However, while Bloomfield Christian School will continue to be faithful stewards of these facilities, our vision is to cultivate facilities that better enable teachers to deliver a premier education to every boy and girl who attends. 

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Are we really showing enough growth in enrollment to justify future expansion? 

Yes. We are growing at about five to ten percent (5-10%) per year.

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Are there other options to construction to provide more space, such as using more of the church's space? 

We have explored this but at this point that option is not viable.

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How will the expansion help our teachers and programs aside from increased enrollment?  

The proposed expansion will enable BCS to accomplish its mission in a variety of ways:

• With new secondary classroom space, the grammar school would be able to expand its current classrooms so that students have a more comfortable classroom size for instruction and activity.
• A fully functional science lab, if built, will allow for proper experimentation and practice of the scientific method. Students will be able to gain hands-on experience in S.T.E.M. fields that are heretofore limited. 
• A library, if built, will help BCS foster a love of great books and provide a space for rumination and contemplation.
• A music room, if built, will create a permanent space for our orchestra, choirs, and music classes.

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Would the gym be affected by building onto it? 

The gym will only be affected positively because we will have brand new locker rooms.

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How many more classrooms or multi-purpose rooms will be built in the proposed expansion?

Nine (9) including the new locker rooms.

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What will the school's maximum enrollment be after the expansion is complete? 

Approximately 250.

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How does this expansion affect our relationship with the church? 

It will not affect the relationship at all. 

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Fundraising

What is the projected cost of the project? 

Approximately $1,200,000 

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How will the board ensure there are no cost overruns during construction? 

We plan to sign a “Guaranteed Maximum” contract with the General Contractor.

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What if we can't raise 100% of the cost through donations?  What is the school's position on adding debt? 

The Board is very sensitive to adding debt which we cannot sustain. So, it is our hope to raise the entire amount from like-minded foundations and this capital campaign. If there is a small shortfall, the Board will explore other options within the realm of good stewardship.

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How does this project affect the operating budget of the school, if at all? 

Expenses will go up due to a larger building but since enrollment is also going up, the net effect should be neutral.

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What other parties are we soliciting for donations apart from parents, grandparents and other BCS supporters? 

Like-minded foundations from all over the country.

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What if we know of a foundation or an individual who we think could make a sizeable donation?

Please refer them to Mr. Leach or the Board for follow-up.

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When will the board make the go/no-go decision on the expansion project? 

Most likely by year end.  

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What will be done with the donations received if the project is delayed or postponed? 

They will be held in a segregated account specifically earmarked for the expansion.

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What is the best way to give online to fulfill a pledge to the capital campaign? 

If you wish to submit your donation online, you may do so here.

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Is there material to distribute to those who might be interested in donating? 

Yes. Information & pledge cards are available at the front office. Please also direct anyone interested to bloomfieldchristian.com/25fund for the most complete, up-to-date information. 

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Design & Construction

How will construction coexist with or affect our students during the school year?  How will disruptions (vehicles, noise, dust, etc.) be managed? 

The vast majority of the construction is planned for the summer. There may be a couple of months of overlap and we will do our best to limit the disruptions.

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What is the ideal or projected timeline for the construction start to finish? 

May, 2020 – September, 2020.

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How will the final design and selection of paint colors, furniture and other furnishings be done and by whom? 

The Board has a subcommittee already in place to handle these matters. 

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What has the board done or need to do to gain the approval of the Township and the neighbors for this project? 

The expansion has already been approved by Bloomfield Township.   

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How would the expansion of the building affect the security systems in place?  Would we need or want to plan more security monitoring for a larger space?  How would fire safety need to be expanded in a larger space? 

Security and safety of our students is our number one priority and that will remain so with an expanded facility.