Superintendent reports major summer work at BF and accessibility upgrades at NCMS

Superintendent Dr. Thornton told the Cumberland School Committee on June 25, 2026 that two summer construction projects are advancing: substantial footprint and site-grade work at BF and an accessibility and security upgrade at NCMS.

At BF, Dr. Thornton said much of the building is being enclosed with new windows and that crews are adjusting the site elevations several feet; as a result the new “front door” will be at what was previously the back of the building and parts of the current gym/cafeteria area are being demolished. He said the contractor expects to pour the final portion of concrete early next week and that the project is part of expected summer work.

At NCMS, the district is replacing a lift with an elevator and installing a new, more secure double-door front entrance. Dr. Thornton described the projects as part of the district’s planned summer “slam” of construction activity and said work is moving along.

Board members asked a few clarifying questions; Superintendent Thornton said meetings on the BF project will continue as needed and that the projects should be substantially complete prior to the school year.