LORDSTOWN — Plans are underway for a sensory learning and activity room at Lordstown Elementary School in an area previously occupied by lockers.

Lordstown Elementary Principal Rich Zigarovich said the elementary school, which used to be the former Gordon D. James Career Center, had many lockers no longer being used that were removed over the summer.

He said a new area with new flooring was created near the front entrance of the school for the sensory room.

Zigarovich said the room is similar to the STEM area in another section of the school where lockers were taken out. That project was covered by grant money and offers a space for hands-on learning of science, math, technology and engineering.

Zigarovich said the area is used mostly by grades 3-6.

Plans are to have the sensory area ready for use by spring 2026.

Zigarovich said he met with teachers of grades K-2 and special education at the school who want to be able to take their students to the sensory room, where they can use fine motor skills, take part in interactive learning and be able to move.

“The teachers feel the room will be a great addition for the school and for the students,” he said.

The school recently received a $1,400 donation from the Lordstown Apple Cider Festival Committee from the raffle of a shed at the festival in September.

Zigarovich said the money will be used for getting learning items for the sensory room, such as a small obstacle course, mini trampolines, and play tables and units.

“This room will help children to learn to interact with each other,” he said.

Superintendent Greg Bonamase said he was glad that the space, which was not being used, will now provide a place for children to engage in various learning activities.

“I can see great things in that room,” Bonamase said.

TAMPEEL PROPERTY

In other business at the October board meeting, Bonamase said the former TAMPEEL property off Ellsworth Bailey Road is being reviewed for what it can be used for.

He said the school district owns the property, which was at one time used as an outdoor nature learning area.

Bonamase said the village had received a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to do tests on the property and then be reviewed by the village fire chief and EPA.

In other action, the board:

• Approved the senior class trip May 23-25 to New York City.

• Approved Karen Slanina on a one-year contract as a high school custodian at $17.57 per hour.

• Is discussing a cybersecurity policy for the district for computers and other equipment.