Our Middle School Challenges

Built in 1964, Abington Middle School has served our community well. However, as the building has aged, maintaining it and enhancing student learning experiences have become more challenging. Over the years, the District has invested in expanding the building to meet enrollment and learning needs, but these challenges are growing. 

Our community recognizes the facility challenges at Abington Middle School. Residents who engaged with the District during the facilities planning process said addressing the Middle School’s facility challenges should be the District’s top priority. 

The current building was not designed for middle school students. It has been retrofitted numerous times to keep pace with growing enrollment, modern teaching methods, and students' evolving needs. 

Challenges include:

  • Accessibility issues that do not provide an equitable experience for all students 

  • Classrooms that lack flexibility and have outdated furnishings 

  • Lack of natural light in classrooms

  • Undersized and outdated gyms and performing arts spaces 

  • Lack of outdoor space for lunch periods and other activities

  • Insufficient common areas and collaboration spaces

  • Opportunities to strengthen safety and security

  • Aging heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems 

  • Outdated plumbing and electrical systems

  • Deteriorating roofs, windows, walls, and flooring 

  • Damaged ceiling tiles

  • Crowded hallways and common areas

  • Blind spots in hallways and stairwells

  • Fire systems that could be enhanced through updates 

  • Traffic congestion during student drop-off and pick-up

Why address these challenges now? 

Accessible schools provide an equitable experience for all students. 

Schools that provide a safe, secure and healthy environment support the well-being of staff and students.

Modern schools with purposeful design support personalized learning in grade-specific communities, enhanced collaboration, stronger relationships, and the flexibility to adapt to teaching and learning needs. 

Creating a “small school” community provides an environment that fosters belonging, relationships, and a positive school culture.

New buildings and infrastructure help prevent costly repairs and make maintenance more cost-efficient.