Our History
The building that Schoolhouse Apartments occupies was originally constructed as a middle school in 1931 by the Town of New Canaan. The new school helped to relieve the growing student population at the high school next door (now the headquarters of the New Canaan Police Department). The building is a fine example of red brick Colonial Revival architecture.
In 1992, Schoolhouse Apartments, Inc. was established as a non-profit organization and set about securing funds to renovate and convert the building into forty units of affordable senior housing through the Federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 202C program. During the renovation of the building, the original tower clocks were restored. Renovation of the building was completed in 1993 and residents were welcomed into their new homes.
Our Mission
Foster a safe, comfortable, and dignified home for seniors in need of deeply affordable rental housing. Beyond shelter, we build a community for our residents by providing educational and health-related activities and assisting residents with access to essential healthcare, nutrition, and government resources to enhance their quality of life and independence.
The need for affordable housing for low-income senior citizens is greater than ever. As the cost of living continues to rise, many older adults struggle to cover basic necessities such as housing, food, and healthcare. Affordable housing communities like Schoolhouse Apartments play an essential role in ensuring that vulnerable seniors are not forced into homelessness or unsafe living conditions. By providing stable housing, we allow residents to age in place with dignity, security, and access to the supportive services they need.
Our Management
Schoolhouse Apartments, Inc. has engaged a HUD-approved property management firm that provides us with a professional facilities manager, a Resident Services Coordinator, and a Building Superintendent. The property management firm’s leadership attends meetings of our Board of Directors to provide expert advice.
Our Board of Directors
The Board of Directors meets on a quarterly basis, or more frequently as needed. Board members do not receive compensation for their services.
Directors
President: Steve Hoover
Vice President: Roger Williams
Secretary: Joel Pelzner
Treasurer: Bob Spangler
Regular Members
Agata Aspinwall
Robin Farwell-Schuh
Bruce Heller (effective 7/1/2026)
Rev. Dr. Scott Herr
Brian Hollstein
George Kromidas
Kelly McDermott
Lise Leist
Roger Saunders
Martin Shannon
Schoolhouse Apartments, Inc.
156 South Avenue
New Canaan, CT 06840
(203) 972-0020
Photography by Sarah Wrede.