The Glendale Area School District received more than $2.5 million in interest-free bonds. In a couple of weeks, the first phase of projects will begin, including fixing a leaky roof at the elementary school, fixing plumbing and electrical issues, and repairing an inefficient air-conditioning unit.

Arnie Nadonley, Glendale School District superintendent, said the federal money means the cost to taxpayers will be minimal, which he said is good news for a district that can't really afford a tax hike.

"We qualified because so many of our students are low-income. More than 45 percent qualify for free and reduced lunch in the district," Nadonley said.

Crews will work when students are dismissed for the day, so classes will not be disrupted. The projects are expected to be complete by Dec. 31.

Next year, the second phase of the project will kick off, which includes replacing the high school roof and getting rid of trailers and closet-sized classrooms that are currently used for special needs students and don't comply with state regulations.

Last year was the first time in four years that all of the classes in Glendale made adequate yearly progress on their Pennsylvania System of School Assessment testing. With the overall district enrollment expected to grow, the superintendent said the ultimate goal is for the renovations to improve students' learning environment.

Stay with WJAC-TV News, WJACTV.com and WJAC.com Mobile for continuing coverage.