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Flower Garden, Security Cameras and Gender-Neutral Bathroom to be Added to Astoria School

Dec. 8, 2017 By Tara Law

More than $100,000 is going to an Astoria middle school to bring security cameras, a flower garden and a gender-neutral bathroom.

State Senator Jose Peralta announced yesterday that he has allocated $105,000 of state funds toward Steinway Intermediate School, a 1,100-student school located at 37-11 21st Ave.

Funds will be used to level the 38th Street side of the school to accommodate the flower garden. The garden will help beautify the area and promote the school’s mission of respecting the environment.

The funds will also be spent on interior cameras to add to school safety.

In addition, one of the two bathrooms at the main entrance of the school will be renovated and be made gender-neutral.

“It is crucial that students attend class in a comfortable and dynamic setting,” Peralta said. “We must ensure the best possible learning environment.

Miranda Pavlou, the school principal, said that the school takes great pride in beautifying the environment and welcomed the new garden.

She also said that the installation of a gender-neutral bathroom helps the school to promote inclusivity.

“The renovation and installation of a gender-neutral restroom for students in our building will further our mission to maintain a school culture that respects and values all students,” Pavlou said.