The Rochester School District, in close collaboration with the City of Rochester, is proud to announce the launch of the Spaulding High School Athletic Fields Project.

Construction officially began on Monday, July 14, marking the start of a nearly $5 million transformation aimed at enhancing outdoor athletic facilities for both students and the greater Rochester community.

Project Overview and Improvements

This major upgrade will modernize several outdoor athletic areas on the Spaulding High School campus, including:

● Installation of new track and new drainage
● Reconstruction of existing track event areas
● Regrading and resodding of the football field
● Replacement of football field goal posts
● Installation of new perimeter fencing, with improvements to existing softball field fencing
● Softball field maintenance
● Construction of a new concession stand and restroom facility

To maintain a secure work zone, the entire renovation area will be enclosed using a combination of existing and temporary fencing. A designated construction entrance will be located on Wakefield Street at the north corner of Spaulding High School to ensure safe separation from student and staff traffic.

Accessibility Accommodations

The district remains committed to ensuring safety and accessibility throughout construction. Special accommodations will be made for preschool and special education programs, including revised drop-off and pick-up procedures. Families will receive detailed communications outlining these changes prior to the start of the school year.

Fall Sports Schedule Adjustments

Due to limited access during construction, public use of the athletic fields will be restricted throughout the fall and into the winter. As a result, Spaulding High School fall athletic events—including home football games—will be held at host sites in neighboring districts.

The Rochester School District extends its sincere appreciation to our regional partners for their support and collaboration in ensuring that Spaulding athletes can continue to compete during this transition.

Funding and Community Investment

The project is being fully funded through a legal settlement with Juul Labs, related to concerns over the company’s marketing practices targeting youth. No local tax dollars are being used to finance this work.

“This project reflects our district’s continued investment in student opportunity, health, and community engagement,” said Interim Superintendent Jared Fulgoni. “We’re excited to make meaningful improvements to our athletic fields that will support not just Spaulding athletics, but the entire Rochester community for years to come. We appreciate the public’s support and patience as we bring this vision to life.”