Construction Underway at Smith Elementary School

Transformative investment will modernize a historic school, expand early childhood education, and create state-of-the-art learning environments for generations of New Britain students. 

The Consolidated School District of New Britain (CSDNB), in partnership with the City of New Britain, officially broke ground on the comprehensive renovation and expansion of Smith Elementary School on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The groundbreaking ceremony marked a significant milestone in New Britain’s continued commitment to modernizing school facilities, expanding educational opportunities, and investing in the future of New Britain's students and families.

The project will include a complete renovation of all spaces within the historic Smith Elementary School building, transforming the facility with modernized classrooms, structural improvements, upgraded technology infrastructure, and energy-efficient building systems. Classrooms will be equipped with interactive projectors, while updated security technology and access controls at every exterior door will enhance building safety. The campus will also feature five new playground and recreational areas, including a multi-sport court and green field area, providing students with expanded opportunities for physical activity, play, and outdoor learning. A redesigned traffic pattern will improve safety and efficiency during arrival and dismissal, with dedicated consideration for students who walk, ride the bus, or are dropped off by their families.

A major component of the project is the construction of a brand-new, 22-classroom Pre-K Early Learning Center addition, significantly expanding early childhood education opportunities for New Britain's youngest learners. The addition will feature its own main entrance, office spaces, and multipurpose room, creating a dedicated environment tailored to the needs of early learners and their families. Together, the renovated elementary school and new Pre-K center will create a modern, welcoming campus designed to support academic achievement, social and emotional development, and student success for generations to come. 

“Today marks an exciting new chapter for Smith Elementary School and for the future of early childhood education in New Britain,” said Dr. Tony Gasper, Superintendent of Schools. “We are honoring the history of a school that has served generations of New Britain families while reimagining what is possible for the generations still to come. From our youngest Pre-K learners to our elementary students, this project will create the modern, welcoming, and inspiring spaces our students and educators deserve. We are grateful to our city and state partners for helping us turn this vision into a reality.” 

A Strong Partnership and Significant State Investment

The Smith Elementary School and Pre-K Early Learning Center project is made possible through a strong partnership between the City of New Britain and the State of Connecticut. 

"Today, we continue efforts to revitalize schools across the City of New Britain. The legacy of Smith Elementary will now expand to include early childhood education, positioning the youngest students on a path for long-term success. I look forward to seeing this project completed and welcoming our next generation of learners,” said U.S. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes.

Mayor Bobby Sanchez has been a longtime advocate for improving New Britain's public schools and securing the resources necessary to modernize educational facilities. During his tenure as a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives, Sanchez advocated for the state's School Construction Grant Program, recognizing the critical role state funding plays in helping communities like New Britain invest in their schools. His commitment to school improvement continues in his role as mayor, working alongside district and state leaders to advance projects that will benefit generations of New Britain students.

“Investing responsibly in our schools is an investment in the future of New Britain,” said Mayor Bobby Sanchez. “Having championed this project as a state representative, it is especially meaningful to now see it move forward as Mayor. I’ve been proud to be part of this effort over the years, securing state support to make this investment possible while being mindful of our local taxpayers. It’s exciting to see that work take shape in modern, safe classrooms for our students and educators and expanded access to early childhood education for our youngest learners.”

Through Connecticut's School Construction Grant Program, administered by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), New Britain qualifies for one of the highest school construction reimbursement rates in the state due to its economic profile. The state currently reimburses 79.64% of eligible school construction and renovation costs, covering nearly 80 cents of every dollar spent on approved project expenses. This substantial investment enables New Britain to modernize aging facilities and expand educational opportunities while minimizing the financial impact on local taxpayers.

The project is overseen by New Britain's School Building Committee, an appointed body responsible for overseeing school construction projects authorized through bond funding approved by the New Britain Common Council. The renovation and expansion will be completed by Newfield Construction, with architectural design by Kaestle Boos Associates (KBA). The two firms previously partnered on the district's Holmes Elementary School and Chamberlain Elementary School projects, bringing continuity and experience to New Britain's ongoing school modernization efforts.