We are well underway with Phase 2 of our boiler system upgrades. This project is a complete replacement of our original steam boiler system and is a significant investment in the future of St. John the Baptist School. The new system will provide many long-term benefits, including:

• Individual room temperature controls for greater comfort.
• Safer heat delivery through new classroom ventilators.
• More energy-efficient boilers.
• Redundant heating units to ensure reliable heat, even during the coldest winter months.

Throughout the summer, tremendous progress has been made. The original classroom ventilators on both the first and second floors have been removed and are being replaced with new units. As part of this work, new water lines have been installed throughout the classrooms and portions of the hallways. Once all plumbing has been thoroughly tested, the pipes will be insulated and enclosed within new soffits and columns, providing a clean, finished appearance.

I'm happy to report that the second floor has successfully passed pressure testing, and plumbing installation on the first floor is nearing completion. In the coming weeks, our contractors will make the final connections to the new boilers and install the advanced control systems that will monitor and regulate the building's heating efficiency.

While we are incredibly excited about these improvements, the project has reached a point where additional time is needed to ensure everything is completed safely and correctly before students and staff return. As much as I dislike delaying the start of the school year, we simply do not have another option.

The first day of school will now be Wednesday, August 26, 2026.