Alternative High School students moving to Salt Point campus
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Due to ongoing facilities difficulties at the Dutchess BOCES Alternative High School (AHS), students will be moving to schools at the Salt Point campus after Spring Break. AHS students will be attending remote classes until after Spring Break through April 19 and returning to in-person instruction at our 5 BOCES Road location on Wednesday, April 20.
“The health and safety of our students and staff is always, and will always be, our highest priority,” said Deputy Superintendent Jodi Delucia. “We know this is a big move in a short time, but it is necessary and in the best interest of our students.”
Additionally, all students from Salt Point Center and the Career and Technical Institute will be remote on Tuesday, April 19 to allow for a smooth transition.
The AHS is located in a rented facility at 900 Dutchess Turnpike that is occupied by manufacturing businesses in addition to the school building. The building is not meeting the needs and expectations of BOCES for a positive learning environment. As a renter, BOCES is unable to control the systems that are causing concern.
Currently, the capital project to build the new high school on the Salt Point campus is in full swing. The grand opening of the new building is anticipated in the fall of the 2022-2023 school year.
“Right now, the best thing for students is to return to in-person learning. While the new construction is not yet complete, we have identified spaces that may be used on the Salt Point campus temporarily to make in person learning a reality for our Alternative High School students,” Delucia said.
“Our number one priority is to provide all students in our care a safe, healthy, and positive learning environment,” said District Superintendent Jason Schetelick.
This temporary consolidation plan includes moving some professional employees to remote work to accommodate space needs, as well as relocating some classes within the Salt Point Center and the Career and Technical Institute.
Dutchess BOCES will continue to work with school districts, transportation, and support service providers to make the transition as smooth as possible. BOCES will communicate regularly with our community stakeholders.
