NECSD Celebrates Groundbreaking for New NFA Career and Technical Education Center

The Newburgh Enlarged City School District broke ground for their new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. 

"Today, we stand together to mark a new chapter in our educational journey—a chapter that will continue to serve students’ needs—whether they decide to go to college or commit to master a trade." - Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, Superintendent of Schools

In collaboration with CSArch, Jacobs Project Managers Co., and Pike Construction Services, the NECSD began construction on a new building that will host more than twenty Career and Technical Education programs immediately adjacent to the district’s main high school building, preparing scholars for college and careers. The $75M project is anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2026 with gross square footage (GSF) of 132,424 square feet (SF) and will provide hundreds of union trade jobs throughout the project. The Center is an integral part of the Capital Bond Project that received supermajority support from voters of the school district in May 2019.

This building will serve as a hub for students, educators, families, and our community fostering a strong sense of collaboration and unity as we strive for quality education and endless possibilities for career preparation. Not only will this building provide hundreds of union trade job opportunities for our community right now, it will prepare our scholars for lifelong opportunities once they graduate.

This new building would not be possible without the support of our community and the dedication of those involved in bringing this vision to life—our school board - both past and present, our Capital Bond Planning Committee, educators and administrators, the architects, the construction teams, the Department of Health, various Department heads from the City of Newburgh, Central Hudson, elected officials, and especially our community members who have approved this project. 

Standing at a podium constructed by Career and Technical Education students, speakers included:

Dr. Manning Campbell, Superintendent of Schools
Ms. Susan Valentino, Co-Principal, Newburgh Free Academy
Mr. John Etri, Director of Career and Technical Education
Mr. Todd DiOrio, President of the Hudson Valley Building & Construction Trade Council
Mr. Steve Gross, Orange County Director of Economic Development
New York State Senator Rob Rolison
Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson
City of Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey
Mr. Matteo Doddo, Co-Principal, Newburgh Free Academy
Excerpts from their remarks can be found below.  

"As we look ahead, let’s remember that this building will not just be bricks and mortar; it will be a space where futures are shaped and dreams are realized. It’s a place where every student will have the opportunity to discover their passions and reach their full potential. Together, we are building not just a school, but a brighter future for our children and for our community." - Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, Superintendent of Schools

Capital Bond Project | More information about the Capital Bond Project can be found by visiting our NECSD Capital Bond website. 

Details and Renderings | The latest presentation that includes details and renderings can be found by clicking this link and scrolling to slides 20 - 29. 

"This groundbreaking signifies not just the start of construction, but also our shared commitment to providing a state-of-the-art learning environment for our students. We recognize that when children are in a quality atmosphere and surrounded by equipment and facilities that resemble a professional workspace, they rise to the occasion. In this new setting, students will be able to focus on their academics and develop their professional skills. We also know that our scholars deserve to feel worthy of a world-class facility to learn and grow as scholars and as future leaders in their prospective industry. This new school building will be a place where children are exposed to possibility and where curiosity is nurtured, creativity flourishes, and innovation is encouraged." Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, Superintendent of Schools 

"From technology to trades and creative industries, the programs housed here will open doors to careers that will not only empower our students but also strengthen the local economy. We are investing in the future of Newburgh. To our students, this building is for you. It is a testament to the belief we have in your potential and the bright future that awaits you." Mr. Matteo Doddo, Newburgh Free Academy, Co-Principal, "To the community, this is a commitment—a promise that Newburgh and Newburgh School District will continue to evolve, prosper, and become a hub for learning, innovation, and growth."

"This facility will represent so much more than bricks and mortar—it’s an investment in our students’ futures. It will provide them with hands-on skills, industry knowledge, and real-world experience that will open doors to both higher education and careers right out of high school. With this space, we will empower students to dream bigger and build brighter futures for themselves." Ms. Susan Valentino, Newburgh Free Academy, Co-Principal

"What sets this school apart is its unwavering emphasis on career pathways. Whether it’s Veterinary Technology and Grooming, HVAC, or Plumbing, every program we offer is designed with the future in mind. We’re not just preparing our students to pass tests or earn diplomas—we are preparing them to enter the workforce with real, tangible skills. This building and the programs within it are equipped to give our students the hands-on experiences they need to step confidently into their careers the day they graduate." Mr. John Etri, Director of Career and Technical Education. "And behind these innovative programs are some of the most talented and passionate educators you will ever meet. These teachers aren’t just experts in their fields; they are mentors who invest their hearts in their students. They bring an infectious enthusiasm to their classrooms, and they dedicate themselves fully to the success of every young person who walks through their doors. Each day, they demonstrate what it means to love what you do and to care deeply about those you teach...This school is more than just a place for learning; it’s a pipeline to success, a bridge between education and the workforce, and a catalyst for community development. We hope that every student who walks through these halls will find a path they are passionate about and will graduate not just with a diploma, but with a set of skills that will enable them to build a life here in Newburgh."

Media Coverage | News agencies from across the county covered the event. Documentation of their coverage can be found below.

Mid Hudson News - October 23, 2024 - Newburgh school district breaks ground on $75 million Career and Tech Ed Center

News12 - October 23, 2024 - Newburgh school district breaks ground on career & technical education building

Mid-Hudson Times - To be updated.

Hudson Valley Press - To be updated.

NFA CTE Groundbreaking | PHOTOS (NECSD)

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!