West Montgomery Times

Rep. Donna Scheuren has delivered a $1 million check to the Souderton Area School District. The funds come from the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program (PSFIG), which supports public school districts and area career and technical schools in enhancing their facilities.

The grant will be used to replace the outdated HVAC system at Oak Ridge Elementary School, aiming to improve air quality and energy efficiency. The existing system, which contains old refrigerants, will be upgraded with new equipment such as chillers, rooftop units, and split-system air conditioners with remote condensing units. These improvements are expected to enhance efficiency, improve air quality and delivery, and reduce the district's carbon footprint.

“I am so excited to present this money to the Souderton Area School District,” said Scheuren. “Before I became a state representative, I served as a member of their school board for 12 years. I know how important grant funding like this is to help ensure projects are completed, which in turn provides our children with the best learning environment possible.”

In attendance were Dr. Christopher Hey, assistant superintendent of the Souderton Area School District; Amelie "Emmy" Andrews, a 5th grader at Oak Ridge Elementary School; Principal Tom Ferlick; Rep. Donna Scheuren; Mrs. Judy Rothenberger, teacher at Oak Ridge Elementary School; Dr. Frank Gallagher, superintendent of SASD; and 5th grader Ellis Canavan.