S.C.R. No. 71 Summary

• Department of Education operates 248 public schools with an average building age of 72 years, with approximately 20% of schools over 100 years old.

• As of December 2023, DOE had over $2 billion in unspent capital improvement project funds, including approximately $880 million in obligated funds and $1.2 billion that will lapse by 2026.

• Urges DOE to utilize obligated capital improvement funds and prioritize expenditures based on greatest need, particularly for critical infrastructure upgrades such as plumbing and roof repairs.

• Requests DOE to fill key positions in planning and design within capital improvement project management and improve processes to address the backlog of approximately 180 projects under construction and $130 million in planned projects unable to commence within three years.

• Encourages DOE to develop a master strategic plan and road map for funding critical projects, with certified copies to be transmitted to the Board of Education, Superintendent, and School Facilities Authority.