The BOE's decision to replace Pomperaug Elementary School (PES) and Gainfield Elementary School (GES) with new construction on their current school sites is the result of a comprehensive, multi-year feasibility study. Driven by community input, data analysis, and fiscal responsibility, this process has determined that building new schools offers the best long-term value for taxpayers compared to renovating existing structures.

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Below is a timeline of the process that led to this solution.

June 2024: Feasibility Study Launch
The Region 15 Feasibility Study Committee launched a "virtual kick-off" to begin evaluating the future of our elementary facilities. The primary goal was to determine whether to repair, renovate, or replace GES (built 1941) and PES (built 1967), which are currently the oldest elementary schools in the region.

Late 2024 – Spring 2025: Analysis & Community Engagement
Through a series of architectural interviews and "Community Conversations," the committee gathered feedback and analyzed the state of the current buildings. By May 2025, the committee narrowed the possibilities to three primary options, weighing the educational benefits and costs of renovation versus new construction.

Summer 2025: Prioritizing New Construction
In June 2025, the committee presented recommendations to the Board of Education, highlighting that new construction offered superior long-term efficiency and educational value compared to renovation. During the August 2025 Board Retreat, the district explored land acquisition for a potential combined campus but identified significant challenges regarding site viability and availability.

Fall 2025: Extensive Site Selection Process
Region 15 explored more than 11 potential sites across Middlebury and Southbury. The district conducted a detailed value analysis to determine if purchasing new land or utilizing current assets would be most beneficial for the community.

January 2026: The Final Plan
Based on availability, topography, and community impact, the study determined that purchasing new land and selling existing sites would require complex financial transactions and lead to uncertain outcomes.

January 12, 2026 GES PES Feasibility Presentation

Consequently, the district concluded that utilizing the existing PES and GES properties, which Region 15 already owns, was the most practical and cost-efficient approach. This plan leverages the district's ownership of the land while maximizing state reimbursement incentives.

Additional information about the GES-PES Feasibility study can be found on our website: https://www.region15.org/board-of-education/ges-pes

On January 12, 2026, the Board of Education received an update on the Feasibility Study for Pomperaug and Gainfield Elementary Schools. The presentation focused on evaluating potential locations and construction options to address the district's future needs.

Key Highlights:

• Site Analysis: The study reviewed and rated multiple properties in Southbury, including the current school sites, 1230 South Britain Road, and 159 Kettletown Road. Sites were scored on criteria such as topography, access to utilities, traffic impact, and acquisition requirements.
• Construction Options: The presentation provided preliminary cost comparisons and project summaries for "Renovate as New" versus "New Construction" scenarios for both Pomperaug and Gainfield Elementary Schools.
• Project Schedule: A timeline was outlined with a targeted project referendum date of May 6, 2026. Upcoming steps include community engagement forums, finalizing educational specifications, and the grant application process

Click here to view the full presentation: January 12, 2026 PES GES Feasibility Study

Link to GES PES Feasibility Study FAQ Document (NEW!) (Dated December, 2025)

Link to: GES PES Feasibility Study FAQ Document (Dated November 2025)

Region 15 has released an updated set of Frequently Asked Questions to help the community understand the ongoing Gainfield Elementary School (GES) and Pomperaug Elementary School (PES) Feasibility Study. This study is focused on evaluating long-term, sustainable, and educationally sound options for addressing aging facilities, enrollment trends, space needs, and state funding opportunities.

The FAQ outlines:

• Why the study is being conducted and how it aligns with district needs and state incentives
• Who served on the Feasibility Study Committee, including district leaders, town officials, teachers, and community members
• Key findings from building assessments at GES and PES, including accessibility challenges, aging infrastructure, traffic and safety concerns, and undersized or inflexible instructional spaces
• Evaluation of renovation vs. new construction, and why new construction may offer greater long-term value, efficiency, and educational benefits
• Options reviewed, including renovation, two-school models, and the exploration of suitable property for potential new construction

The community can read the full FAQ document to learn more about the process, the findings to date, and the considerations guiding the Board of Education’s planning for the future of our elementary schools.

November 24 2025 PES GES BOE Presentation

October 27, 2025 GES/PES Feasibility Study Presentation

September 29th GES/PES Feasibility Study Presentation 

At the September 29, 2025 Board of Education meeting, the GES/PES Feasibility Committee presented an update to the Region 15 Board of Education. 

Top 3 Preferred Options for GES and PES:

The top three options are variations of new construction and include a district-wide approach to relieve capacity at Long Meadow Elementary School (LMES) and introduce a new Pre-K program. All three options assume the relocation of 100 students from LMES and the inclusion of an 80-student Pre-K program.

Option 1:
Combined New PK-5 in Two Buildings on a New Campus (likely PK-2 and 3-5)
Total Students 1008
Estimated Cost to District: $66 Million (Assumes special legislation for a space waiver)

Option 2:
New PES and New GES on their Existing Sites
Total Students 504 each
Estimated Cost to District: $78 Million

Option 3:
New PES on a New Site and New GES on its Existing Site
Total Students 504 each
Estimated Cost to District: $86 Million

Next Steps

• Refine and select a preferred option
• Discuss possible sites/locations
• Outline the State Grant Application process
• Continue Community Conversations to discuss the concept, scope, schedule, and tax impact.

Please note that this is an overview summarizing the key points of the meeting minutes and facility study presentations. For complete information, including specific details, references, data tables, and in-depth discussions, you should consult the full report and watch and listen to the Board of Education (BOE) meeting

PES/GES Facility Study Presentation - Board of Education Retreat August 19, 2025

BOE August 19, 2025 Retreat Presentation (Complete)

At the August 2025 Board of Education Retreat, BOE members reviewed student achievement, strategic goals, and future planning.

PES/GES Facility Study Options and Rationale

Preferred School Design and Alternatives

The Committee's Top Choice for the Pomperaug Elementary School (PES) and Gainfield Elementary School (GES) facility study was to explore a "school within a school" construction option. This design:

• Is necessitated by acquiring property for the new facility.
• Features two main entries and administration areas.
• Includes dedicated and shared core spaces.
• Organizes grades into small learning communities, such as PK, K, 1&4, 2&3, and a Grade 5 "Academy" (all on the upper level)

The presentation also addressed the alternative of "Fixing what you Have by discipline" (focusing on infrastructure):

• Pros: Project costs can be planned and distributed over multiple years.
• Cons: This approach does not address program needs and is not comprehensive. It is likely to result in lower state reimbursement, a higher cost to taxpayers long-term, and does not update the educational environment

Property and Site Identification

The district reviewed all land options greater than 10 acres in Southbury and identified four potential properties for the new facility. The viability of two of the four properties is currently unknown.

Property:

• Privately Owned: 25 acres - viability is currently unknown
• Privately Owned: 34 acres - viability is currently unknown
• Pierce Hollow Village: State-owned land that was rezoned in the last legislative session, but still requires further Legislative action and may involve concerns over historical artifacts.
• IBM Property: A 228-acre parcel currently for sale; there is potential to carve out a 30-acre lower portion. Access is challenging due to grade and topography, potentially requiring a shared access road with a light industrial zone.
• Town of Southbury Land: Currently under review by TechTon (the architects), with the possibility of existing sewers and water connections

State Grant Legislation Opportunities: The presentation highlighted recent State Legislation that offers additional funding opportunities for school construction:

• Early Childhood Care: A project that includes space for an early childhood care and education program (birth to five years) receives an increase of fifteen percentage points on the state reimbursement rate for the entire project (not to exceed 100%). This program must be maintained for at least ten years.
   
• Specialized Education: A project that includes plans for the expansion or creation of in-district special education programming also receives an increase of fifteen percentage points on the reimbursement rate for that portion of the project (not to exceed 100%)^.

Please note that this is an overview summarizing the key points of the meeting minutes and facility study presentations. For complete information, including specific details, references, data tables, and in-depth discussions, you should consult the full report and watch and listen to the Board of Education (BOE) meeting.

June 9, 2025 Agenda
June 9, 2025 Minutes
June 9, 2025 Video

Members of the GES/PES Feasibility Study Committee presented to the Region 15 BOE.

A summary of the committee recommendations are below as noted in the June 9, 2025 Minutes:

• Need for significant updates and the most cost-effective and efficient way to do this is through a new construction
• First choice is combined-with careful attention to creating smaller learning spaces—IF suitable property can be acquired
• Building new GES/PES at current sites or a new property would be the second line options, if a suitable property for a new combined school cannot be located
• This was a thorough process that did not discount any concerns
• It is important to continue to keep the community engaged in the process
• Relying on the experience of those who have dealt with scheduling challenges to ensure the new schools) have adequate space for current programs (eg a music room not just for music classes but band, orchestra, chorus) is an important to ensuring the spaces are truly functional and best meet the needs of our students

June 4, 2025 Agenda 
June 4, 2025 Minutes
June 4, 2025 Video

The Feasibility Study Committee met on June 4, 2025 to review community feedback, explore design models, and continue narrowing options for the future of Pomperaug Elementary (PES) and Gainfield Elementary (GES).

👉 PES/GES Feasibility Study Committee Meeting Presentation June 4, 2025

Key highlights:

The June 4, 2025, Feasibility Study Committee Meeting presentation served as a critical update, leveraging community feedback and technical analysis to narrow the focus to three prioritized options for the future of Gainfield Elementary School (GES, built 1941) and Pomperaug Elementary School (PES, built 1967)

The presentation affirmed that the resulting Top 3 Options prioritize new construction and a district-wide approach, based on the Committee's aim to resolve existing conditions and determine the best long-term value for taxpayers.

Key Findings and Rationale

• Value Analysis (New Construction vs. Renovate as New): Although the State reimbursement rate is higher for Renovate-as-New (RNV) (48.93%) than for New Construction (38.93%), a detailed value analysis showed that New Construction often offers the best overall value. RNV options incur substantial "Value Lost" costs that do not stay in the building, such as costs for temporary facilities, premiums for occupied renovations, and significant escalation due to a longer construction timeline (up to 48 months vs. 18-24 months for new construction)
   
• "School Within a School" Concept: To address community concerns about maintaining a small-school feel within a combined facility, the Committee explored the "School Within A School" concept, using Barnum Elementary in Cheshire, CT, as a case study. This design allows one new facility to be conceptually divided into separate, small learning communities (e.g., PK-2 and 3-5)
   
• Community Feedback: A recap of Community Conversation #3 confirmed community interest in future-proofing, addressing capacity (including the potential impact of the IBM site conversion), Pre-K planning, and the economies of scale offered by a combined appraoch.

The Top 3 Preferred Options

The three options moving forward all involve new construction and district-wide enrollment planning, including the relocation of 100 students from Long Meadow Elementary School (LMES) and the incorporation of an 80-student Pre-K program^.

3d: Combined New School @ TBD (Largest): One new building for 1,008 students
Total Project Cost $147 Million
Estimated Cost to Region 15: $78 Million

4c: Two New Schools (Larger Enrollment): Two new buildings (New PES & New GES), each for 504 students
Total Project Cost: $163 Million ($83M + 80M)
Estimated Cost to Region 15: $85 Million ($44M + $42M)

4b: Two New Schools (Smaller Enrollment): Two new buildings, each for 504 students (P) on existing sites
Total Project Cost: $166 Million ($85M + 80M)
Estimated Cost to District: $87 Million ($45M + $42M)

Next Steps

The Committee's final goal for this phase is to select a preferred option by late summer. Next steps include:

• Refining and selecting a preferred option.
• Refining the budget and developing detailed cost impact reports.
• Continuing community conversation and engagement^.
• Preparing the necessary Grant Application for the June 2026 deadline

Please note that this is an overview summarizing the key points of the meeting minutes and facility study presentations. For complete information, including specific details, references, data tables, and in-depth discussions, you should consult the full report and watch and listen to the Board of Education (BOE) meeting.

Region 15 hosted its third Community Conversation at Long Meadow Elementary School, bringing families, staff, and community members together to review the study’s progress and narrow options for the future of Pomperaug Elementary (PES) and Gainfield Elementary (GES).

👉 PES/GES Community Conversation #3 Presentation
👉 May 22, 2025 Community Conversation Video

Key highlights:

• Recap: Feedback from Community Conversations #1 and #2 emphasized concerns about school culture, consolidation, traffic, costs, and the importance of sustainability, safety, and maintaining a “small school feel.”

• Building Walkthroughs: Recent tours of Long Meadow and Middlebury Elementary provided additional insight into current space and program needs.

• Options Reviewed: The committee compared renovation (“Renovate as New”) and new construction options, evaluating costs, timelines, and educational benefits. Renovation scenarios often involve longer construction and higher disruption, while new builds offer efficiency and modern design.

• Top 3 Options Identified:

  1. Combined New School at a TBD site (Grades PK–5, ~1,008 students).

  2. Two New Schools – New PES & New GES (each ~504 students, with added Pre-K capacity).

  3. Two New Schools – Two new schools (New PES Site TBD and New GES Current Site)  

• Next Steps: The committee will refine costs, consider tax impacts, and prepare to identify a preferred option by late summer 2025.

May 5, 2025 Agenda
May 5, 2025 Minutes
May 5, 2025 Meeting Video 

The Feasibility Study Committee met on May 5, 2025 to review updated building analyses and narrow options for the future of Pomperaug Elementary (PES) and Gainfield Elementary (GES). The meeting included feedback from recent Think Tank sessions, building walkthroughs at Long Meadow and Middlebury Elementary Schools, and a detailed review of cost scenarios.

👉 PES/GES Committee Meeting Presentation (May 5, 2025)

Key highlights:

• Community Input: Staff and community emphasized flexibility, accessibility, collaboration, and maintaining a sense of belonging as priorities for new or renovated schools.

• Options Reviewed: Scenarios ranged from renovating PES and GES “as new” to constructing one new combined elementary school on the PES, GES, or another site. Additional variations considered phased construction, site capacity, and inclusion of Pre-K.

• Cost & Reimbursement: Renovate-as-New projects are eligible for ~48.93% state reimbursement, while new construction is eligible for ~38.93%. Estimated district costs range from $64M to $90M, depending on the option.

• Value Analysis: Renovation options often involve longer construction timelines, temporary modular classrooms, and higher disruption, while new construction can be faster but requires land and offsite improvements.

• Next Steps: The committee will prepare for Community Conversation #3 on May 22 at Long Meadow Elementary, focusing on finalizing options and gathering input before selecting a preferred recommendation later this summer.

April 22, 2025 Agenda
April 22, 2025 Minutes
April 22, 2025 Video (Extended version) / Video (Abbreviated)

The Feasibility Study Committee met on April 22, 2025 to continue reviewing options for the future of Pomperaug Elementary (PES) and Gainfield Elementary (GES). The session included a recap of recent community conversations, updated enrollment and demographic projections, and a review of renovation and new construction scenarios.

👉 PES/GES April 22 2025 Presentation

Key highlights:

• Community Engagement: Feedback from Community Conversations #1 and #2 was shared, along with plans for a Think Tank session on April 30 and Community Conversation #3 on May 22. Staff and community surveys are also being launched to gather broader input.

• Options Development: The committee reviewed cost models and planning scenarios for renovating existing schools, building two new schools, or constructing one combined elementary school. Each option included considerations for enrollment capacity, state reimbursement, construction timelines, and impacts on school operations.

• Financial Considerations: Renovate-as-New projects are eligible for a 48.93% state reimbursement rate, while new construction is eligible for 38.93%. Preliminary cost estimates were presented for multiple scenarios, ranging from individual renovations to new combined facilities.

• Next Steps: Site walkthroughs of LMES and MES, Think Tank sessions, and additional community engagement events will help refine options. A preferred recommendation is expected by late summer 2025.

Region 15 held its second Community Conversation at Pomperaug Elementary School, continuing discussions about the future of PES and GES facilities. The session recapped feedback from the first meeting, presented case studies of other Connecticut schools, and invited community input through Mentimeter surveys and open discussion.

👉 Community Conversation #2 Presentation 

Key highlights:

• Options Under Review: Renovation of existing schools, building two new schools, or combining PES and GES into one new facility.

• Case Studies: Madison’s Neck River Elementary (new consolidated school) and Simsbury’s Latimer Lane Elementary (phased-occupied renovation) were presented to illustrate potential approaches, benefits, and challenges.

• Community Concerns: Participants raised questions about consolidation, culture and sense of community, maintaining a small-school feel, costs, and impacts during construction.

• Next Steps: Additional Think Tank sessions and Community Conversation #3 are planned this spring, with the committee working toward a preferred option by late summer 2025.

March 11, 2025 Agenda
March 11, 2025 Minutes

Region 15 hosted its first Community Conversation as part of the PES/GES Feasibility Study at Gainfield Elementary School. The session focused on the theme “Conditions, Utilization & Thinking Big!” and included a building tour, project updates, and interactive discussions.

👉 Community Conversation #1 Presentation 

Key highlights:

• Project Goals: Explore renovation or new construction options for PES and GES, ensuring safe, modern, and equitable learning spaces.

• Critical Needs: Both schools face aging facilities, space constraints, and accessibility challenges.

• Community Input: Families and staff shared priorities, concerns, and bold ideas through live polling, group discussion, and Mentimeter surveys.

• Future Engagement: Additional Think Tank sessions and Community Conversations are scheduled this spring, with the study leading to a preferred option by late summer 2025.

January 30, 2025 Presentation
Region 15 Enrollment Report 
Region 15 10 Year Enrollment Projections 

PES/GES Feasibility Study: Existing Conditions and Initial Options (January 30, 2025)

The presentation delivered by Tecton Architects focused on documenting the existing conditions and programmatic needs of the two oldest elementary schools, reviewing enrollment data, and introducing four initial options for discussion.

1. Existing School Conditions

The study identified significant facility challenges at both schools, which include substantial infrastructure issues:

2. Enrollment & Program Analysis

• Enrollment Trend: Projected enrollment for Region 15 K-5 students is generally stable through 2033-34, with GES projecting 381 students and PES projecting 479 students by 2033-34.
   
• State Space Standard: Based on enrollment, GES requires 45,497 Gross Square Feet (GSF) and PES requires 53,752 GSF to meet the State Standard for a Renovate-as-New project. Both schools currently exceed this square footage but still suffer from a lack of functional and specialized spaces.

3. Initial Options Explored

The presentation concluded by introducing four initial options for the Committee to explore, framed by "Rules of Thumb" for site selection (e.g., minimum site size should be 5 acres plus an additional acre per 100 students)

These options set the stage for the next phase of community engagement, including Think Tanks and Community Conversation #1 on "Conditions, Utilization, and Thinking Big!"

Region 15 is studying the future of Pomperaug Elementary School (PES) and Gainfield Elementary School (GES) to ensure our facilities meet the needs of students today and for years to come. The Feasibility Study Committee is exploring options for repairs, renovations, or new construction, with community input guiding the process.

👉 View the June 13, 2024 Virtual Kick Off Meeting Presentation
June 13, 2024 Agenda
June 13, 2024 Minutes

View the following meeting agendas and minutes as the committee continues planning for the future of Pomperaug and Gainfield Elementary Schools.

September 24, 2024 Agenda
September 24, 2025 Minutes

October 15, 2024 Meeting Agenda
October 15, 2024 Meeting Minutes

October 16, 2024 Meeting Agenda
October 16, 2024 Meeting Minutes

November 20, 2024 Meeting Agenda
November 20, 2024 Meeting Minutes

December 3, 2024 Meeting Agenda
December 3, 2024 Meeting Minutes