New Kent School Board fires back at decision to delay construction of new elementary school

New Kent School Board members expressed dismay about a recent decision from county supervisors about not funding the construction of a new elementary school.
School board members spoke on the issue during the Aug. 5 regular school board meeting.

New Kent Superintendent of Schools Brian Nichols spoke about his plea to the board of supervisors about initiating a study for the construction of a new elementary school on property located behind the current New Kent Elementary School. At that meeting, Nichols commented about the need for growth after county leaders suggested renovations instead of funding a new facility.

As the standoff continues, Nichols spoke about the rising costs at the school board meeting.

“I don’t see the escalation getting better,” the superintendent commented, referring an average rise of costs ranging between five to eight percent. “This is currently a $50 million project that could balloon to a $60 million dollar plus project.”

District 2 school board member Helena Cunha made strong comments regarding the need for the new facility.

“Let me state unequivocally that this school board is 100 percent in support of the new build and individual members [of this board] have all advocated for it publicly,” she stated. “The notion that we have somehow shown lack of concern or failed to speak in support of this project is unfounded and frankly false.”

Cunha continued, saying that the current school board has supported the new construction since 2024. She added that building a new facility would be the most cost-effective in comparison to renovations.

While members of the board of supervisors said they supported the construction of a new school, it would be financially tight as county leadership favored the construction of a new courthouse at a cost of $60 million. That decision along with outcry from families for a new school led District 1 school board member and chairman Keith Pagano to issue strong comments directed to county leadership.

“This is a message to the public and county supervisors; I respectfully urge our community members and our honorable county supervisors to support the much-needed construction of the new elementary school in our district,” he said. “Our current facilities are stretched beyond capacity and economically sensible maintenance.
The continued growth in our county has only increased the urgency for action.”

Pagano added that approximately 260 kids have enrolled in kindergarten, although the number for New Kent Elementary School itself hasn’t been released. However, the school board chairman added that the decision is a commitment to the children of New Kent and their education.