The Hudson School Board was briefed on a proposal to raise funds through the Alvirne Trustees for the addition of an auditorium.
“Alvirne High School students deserve a versatile, state-of-the-art auditorium for various purposes, including educational events, concerts, theatrical performances, community gatherings, and more,” a memo to the School Board stated. “This auditorium will enhance the cultural richness of the school and community, provide a venue for local talent, and offer a gathering place for diverse groups. The auditorium will be a space that promotes creativity, fosters community spirit, and enhances the quality of life for all students and residents.”
Alvirne High School Principal Steve Beals explained that essentially they were looking to come up with a five-year plan to raise a million dollars.
“To make this vision a reality, I am proposing a five-year plan to establish a Capital Reserve Fund for an Alvirne Auditorium,” the memo stated. “My goal is to raise $1,000,000 through a combination of donations and community investment.”
In 2018, 2019, and 2020 an Alvirne High School renovation project just failed to pass on a bond vote, which included the auditorium.
“The auditorium was only a portion of the project, but it proved to be a contentious sticking point for many in the community,” the memo stated. “My hope is to be prepared when, and if, a renovation is proposed in the future; to be able to say to the community, “We need this, we believe in this, and we’ve worked hard to generate funds to support this project.’”
It was explained that the The Alvirne-HMS Friends of Music, a 501c3 organization, has $4,062.00 of its cash balance reserved for the Center for the Arts Advocates at this time.
“In January 2025, the FOM Executive Board approved a motion to contribute a minimum of 30 percent of its annual profit, with additional funds to be donated at the discretion of the Board, toward this fund,” a memo to the School Board stated.
Beals said the proposal is for the Alvirne Trustees to donate a large part of the initial fundraising.
“I am seeking the support of the Trustees to help kickstart this funding with a significant initial donation, followed by annual donations to match community support. I realize that this is a large financial request,” the memo stated. “I am concerned that without a sizable investment, the community may not support this initiative when we begin asking for their investment in year two. Further, I fear that word will spread through the community that the school district is trying to put this measure back on the ballot, when in reality, I am advocating for a structured plan in order to be prepared for an undetermined future date. A large initial investment will go a long way toward garnering support from the community.”
The initial request Beals said is for $250,000.
“By securing this donation, we will be well-positioned to move forward with community outreach to expand our fundraising efforts in the subsequent years,” the memo stated.
Beals said ultimately the funds would be reserved for a future potential warrant article, which could state that funds from the community were raised to offset the tax impact.
The board seemed willing to allow Beals to move forward with his proposal.
