Community Engagement and Communication
Effective communication with schools and local communities is a cornerstone of every School Construction Authority (SCA) project.
New School Projects
For new school sites, community engagement begins well before SCA owns the property. Local Community Boards and Community Education Councils (CECs) host public meetings, offering SCA the chance to present proposed new schools to the community and residents a chance to share feedback on the proposed location. The NYC Council provides final approval on all property acquisitions. SCA staff remain in touch with community members once the design and construction schedule are finalized, all the way through to school opening.
School Additions and Renovations
When designing and constructing additions to existing schools, SCA works closely with school representatives throughout the project. SCA hosts regular meetings with school officials during the scope and design phases of both Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Resolution A (Reso A) projects.
Once SCA hires a contractor, we host a Health and Safety Protocol meeting. Attendees typically include the principal, network leader, custodian, parent representative, and the SCA project team. These meetings provide a platform to review project details and address any questions or concerns. Bi-weekly progress meetings continue throughout construction.
Neighborhood Communication
For all projects impacting the community, the SCA sends a Construction Notice to local residents, Community Boards, Education Councils, and elected officials. This notice outlines the scope of work, construction hours, and provides a project contact.
Capital Plan Public Input
SCA is committed to public input through its Five-Year Capital Plan process. Our process includes extensive community engagement:
By November 1: A proposed plan is released.
November–March: Public engagement includes meetings with CECs, Community Boards, City Council delegations, and other officials.
Following February: An updated plan, reflecting public input, is released.
March-June: Final approval is sought through the Panel for Educational Policy, the Mayor, and the City Council during the city’s annual budget process.
SCA publishes amendments to adapt to changes in enrollment, housing trends, building conditions, educational initiatives, and city or state budget funding levels.
This process ensures the Capital Plan remains a responsive, transparent, and dynamic document—shaped by public input and focused on meeting the evolving needs of New York City’s students, families, and school staff.