Council Member Joseph C. Borelli (R-South Shore) has announced the allocation of nearly $3.5 million in funding for Staten Island schools through his office. The funds will go toward a number of new projects and upgrades for a majority of the elementary schools in the Council Member’s district.

The enhancements will include upgrades to the electrical systems in PS 58, PS 53, and IS 7, which will allow the school buildings to accommodate climate control systems and newer technology; playground resurfacing and installation of turf at PS 5; construction of a greenhouse for the horticulture program at IS 75. Funding has also been allocated to more than a dozen schools for technology upgrades, including smart boards and laptop carts.

“We have the highest performing public schools in New York City right here on the south shore of Staten Island,” said Borelli. “I intend to provide our schools with the resources necessary to continue producing exemplary students at exceptional rates.”

“We are extremely grateful that Councilman Joe Borelli recognizes P.S. 53 and its mission to provide a safe, caring, and nurturing environment while we challenge each child to achieve their academic, emotional, and physical potential. P.S. 53 applauds him for supplying us with the resources we need to continue our endeavors. Funding the electrical upgrade so that air-conditioning can be put into every classroom is greatly appreciated by our entire school community. The P.S. 53 family thanks Joe Borelli from our hearts for believing in our future and by helping to keep us cooler, stronger, and smarter,” said Beth Albano, Principal of P.S. 3.

“The I.S. 7 community is extremely grateful to Councilman Borelli for his generosity. I.S. 7 was built in 1964 and is in desperate need of an electrical upgrade to support much needed technology and air conditioning units. Councilman Borelli is providing funding so that the students of I.S. 7 can utilize classroom based technology in a comfortable environment. He truly cares about the children of the community he serves,” said Dr. Nora De Rosa, Principal of I.S. 7.

“Thanks to Councilman Joseph Borelli, we will be having a greenhouse built on the school grounds at Frank D. Paulo Intermediate School 75. Our after-school horticulture club will work year-round to grow plants and flowers that will eventually be used to beautify the school campus, both inside and out. Through the generosity of the Councilman, we are also receiving an electrical upgrade to the school that would enable us to put air conditioners in all classrooms. Mr. Borelli is also funding the resurfacing of our gymnasium floor, which will enable us to compete in the middle school basketball league and enhances our many afterschool programs,” said Principal Kenneth Zapata of IS 75.