MADISON — Four North Side schools are slated for new buildings by fall 2027, replacing aging facilities that district assessments found had accessibility, climate-control and maintenance problems. The Madison Metropolitan School District outlined plans for Black Hawk Middle School, Gompers Elementary School, Sherman Middle School and Malcolm Shabazz City High School during tours Sept. 18. The projects are part of a $507 million facilities program approved through the 2024 referendum, which covers 10 schools at seven sites. Black Hawk and Gompers currently share a building first constructed in 1959. A district assessment identified unlocked windows, water-damaged ceiling tiles, leaks, deteriorated doors and classrooms with poor climate control. Some sinks and drinking fountains also do not meet current accessibility standards. The replacement building is being designed with adaptable spaces that can support different programs over time, including arts, metals, robotics and plumbing, said Scott Chehak, the district’s senior executive director of building services. Sections can be closed off without disrupting classes elsewhere, and four geothermal pumps will serve the building. Principal Maxia Thao said reliable air conditioning is important for students and staff, noting that hot, humid classrooms can make it harder to focus. Black Hawk Principal Aaron Willis said the added space is expected to create more opportunities for students in the two schools to work together. Sherman and Shabazz’s current building dates to 1928, with additions built over several decades. District assessments have pointed to worn ceilings and flooring, roof leaks, cracked retaining walls, cramped classrooms and limited accessibility. Its heating and cooling systems are so old that some replacement parts are no longer made. The new building is planned to give the schools more distinct spaces across two floors, with larger classrooms and gyms and improved access for students with disabilities. School board member Savion Castro said the gyms and other areas are intended to be available to neighborhood residents on weekends for activities such as sports and art shows. Construction has temporarily reduced outdoor space for Sherman and Shabazz students. School staff have been sharing available areas, and the district plans to restore lawn space where the existing building stands after it is demolished. Some trees have been relocated, and the schools received an urban forestry grant to plant more trees next year, according to the district. The four North Side schools are among the oldest in MMSD’s facilities program; all 10 buildings included in the broader effort are at least 60 years old, and some are nearly a century old. The district expects the Black Hawk-Gompers and Sherman-Shabazz projects to be completed in fall 2027.