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Vashon Lamont Hill, Chief of Marketing and Communications
Email: vhill@plainfield.k12.nj.us
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Plainfield Public Schools Acquires BUF I and BUF II: A Landmark Investment in Early Childhood Education and Community Engagement
PLAINFIELD, NJ – June 3, 2025 – In a strategic acquisition nearly two years in the making, Plainfield Public Schools proudly announces the purchase of the BUF I and BUF II properties, a bold move that reaffirms the district’s commitment to high-quality, inclusive early childhood education and community-centered growth.
This milestone honors the legacy of early childhood education pioneer Sondra Clark and secures the future of public preschool in Plainfield. Through a right of first refusal agreement with the leadership of the BUF Health and Human Services Corporation, the district secured ownership of the two properties—strengthening its early childhood portfolio and establishing new pathways to support students, families, and staff.
Expanding Early Learning Access and Inclusion
BUF II, located at 510 Grant Avenue, will be maintained as a preschool facility and immediately renamed The Plainfield Early Learning Center, with a formal naming process to follow in alignment with Board of Education policy. The facility—opening in the 2025–2026 school year—will serve as the district’s first public preschool site operated entirely by Plainfield Public Schools, offering free, inclusive early childhood education that serves both general education students and students with disabilities in integrated classroom settings.
“We are huge proponents of inclusivity,” said Superintendent of Schools Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S. “As part of this partnership, we can now provide preschool settings that reflect the diverse needs of all learners, creating inclusive spaces where students can learn and thrive together.”
This purchase brings critical flexibility to the district’s preschool programming and enhances services for families across the Plainfield community. In a parallel effort, the district has distributed 11 classrooms previously housed at BUF I among trusted community-based provider partners, ensuring continuity of care and collaboration across the early childhood landscape.
“This acquisition is rooted in collaboration,” Superintendent Hasan emphasized. “It is a transaction that benefits the greater good of our community and ensures that all of our partners have their rightful seat at the table.”
A New Hub for District Leadership and Community Engagement
BUF I, located at 403 West Seventh Street, will be repurposed into the Plainfield Public Schools Administrative Community Building. Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, this site will become the new home of the district’s administrative offices, a professional development center, and other key services. The facility will also be made available for community events, promoting public engagement and expanding access to civic space.
“As we transform BUF I into a new anchor for district leadership and community involvement, we are also responding to the need for more educational space,” said Superintendent Hasan. “This allows us to reallocate our existing administrative building at 1200 Myrtle Avenue for classroom use—an essential step in reducing overcrowding and supporting student learning.”
A Vision for Equity, Excellence, and Growth
“This acquisition is not just a step forward—it is a testament to our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every child, from preschool through graduation, has access to the spaces and resources they deserve,” said Superintendent Hasan. “Plainfield Public Schools is where your child’s educational journey begins and continues with excellence.”
Board President Hanae M. Wyatt echoed this sentiment: “As we continue to make meaningful decisions for the growth and development of Plainfield Public Schools, it is essential that we prioritize inclusion in every aspect of the educational experience. This action is one more step in our mission to create an environment where all students are empowered to thrive—regardless of their background.”
The acquisition of BUF I and BUF II represents a visionary investment in Plainfield’s future—supporting children, strengthening families, and creating opportunities for generations to come.
Superintendent Hasan concluded: “This is just the start of something beautiful as we embark upon this new journey for Plainfield Public Schools and the entire Plainfield community.”
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For more information on the Plainfield Public School District or this story, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at, (908) 731-4442.