By Karl Moats '04

The Science, Math, and Technology Center passed another crucial step, as the Board of Trustees finalized the funding to complete the design process of the SMT. They also voted to proceed with the planning of the modules that will house the science classrooms during the construction of the new building. They were given virtual tours of the SMT and heard from top engineers from around the country. Approvals and the tour occurred at the Board of Trustees meeting Saturday, April 29.

"Before, we had a conceptual design; that is, we had the shape of the rooms and hallways. Now we are in the design development phase. This will tell us everything right down to the shape of the doorknobs," said Dean of Faculty Richard Bonanno. The design development will also provide a more specific cost for the project. The current estimate stands at $42.5 million dollars. This figure could change by as much as 10%

The Board of Trustees officially approved to contract customized modules. The modules will be situated in Chapin Field, behind John Louis dormitory.

Among those in attendance at the Board of Trustees meeting was an engineer from the Leadership in Energy and Environment Development (LEED). This association is responsible for determining the energy efficiency of buildings all around the world. Mr. Bonanno said, "LEED has a scale to judge the 'greenness' of its buildings. It awards silver ratings for very efficient, gold for extremely efficient, and platinum for the absolute highest efficiency. In the United States, there are 23 buildings with a gold rating, and one building with a platinum rating. LEED believes that the Science, Math, and TEchnology Center has the potential to earn a gold rating."

The final decision on whether or not to pursue the building of the SMT will be made in October. Mr. Bonanno said, "The progress of the Science, Math, and Technology Center is going remarkably smoothly. The architects have been wonderful, the trustees have been supportive, and the donors have been generous." It is likely that work will begin in September of 2003.

As published in the May 22, 2002 issue of the Deerfield Scroll, the monthly newspaper of Deerfield Academy.