Press Releases
Camden, NJ-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced his support for a planned new Camden High School, replacing the crumbling current school constructed a century ago.
“Today’s a great day for Camden City students, teachers and parents. Since the time I was sworn in to the New Jersey Legislature in 2010, I have advocated for safe schools that provide ample opportunity for our children. During my tenure as Chairman of the Schools Construction Subcommittee in the New Jersey Senate, I made Camden High School a priority. We’ve invested millions of dollars for the repair and maintenance of the current Camden High School to bring it up to the standards that every student should expect. However the current building is too old and too damaged that mere band-aids cannot fix it any longer. In fact, it’s downright dangerous and it’s unacceptable. Students can’t safely learn in that kind of environment.” said Rep. Donald Norcross.
The New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) today announced plans for a new, 242,000-square-foot state-of-the-art high school that will feature four smaller academies or learning communities and accommodate approximately 1,200 students. Construction costs are an estimated $133 million.
“The simple truth is Camden High School is unsafe for students, faculty, and staff. It has deteriorated beyond the point of financially reasonable repair. The option put forth by the SDA today to construct a new school and demolish the existing building is the best course for the futures of our students, and the most financially responsible way to move forward,” said Rep. Donald Norcross.
The SDA says construction of a new school would come faster than renovating the existing Camden High School.
“I want to give credit the administration, the SDA, and the Camden City School Board for their leadership, advocacy, and vision. The new Camden High School will provide different learning environments and specialties for students—whether they want to go the route of college prep or learn a trade. This represents the kind of opportunities we want to give our students,” concluded Rep. Norcross.
###
Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress.