A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the district’s collaboration with DRA Architects, led by Greg SMY, who outlined the progress and future steps of the school building project. The process began with a facilities assessment in late 2020 and led to the submission of a statement of interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), a critical step for securing funding. The district’s acceptance by MSBA in 2024 marked a milestone. The project is currently in Module 3, focusing on developing an educational program with extensive community input. The design aims to accommodate a student population of around 680 and open its doors by August 2029.

Community involvement was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. David Steven, an educational programmer, facilitated discussions on educational priorities through workshops that included diverse community stakeholders such as students, teachers, and administrators. The workshops aimed to gather insights into the educational needs and aspirations for the new facility. An interactive tool, Mentimeter, was used during the meeting to collect anonymous feedback from participants.

The meeting explored various school configuration options, ranging from Grade 9 through 12 schools for 365 students to Grades 6 through 12 schools for 680 students. Different renovation and construction models were discussed, including base renovations, partial renovations with additions, and entirely new constructions. Participants were encouraged to share their visions for the school, which included calls for a dedicated band room, an improved auditorium, updated learning spaces, and a sports training center. The desire for the school to serve as a community center accessible after hours was also highlighted.

Design priorities were another focal point of the meeting. The importance of creating flexible classroom spaces that support both collaborative and individual learning was emphasized. Plans for larger and more adaptable classrooms, robust technology infrastructure, and sustainable building practices were discussed. The design would include features such as “borrowed light” to enhance interior spaces and ensure accessibility and safety. The idea of interdisciplinary organization was advocated, promoting connections between subjects rather than segregating classrooms by discipline.

Security emerged as a top concern, with discussions on measures that enhance visibility and supervision within the school. The need for secure entry points and safe community access, while maintaining the facility’s role as a community hub, was stressed. Concepts such as agile classrooms with flexible spaces and extended learning areas as alternatives to traditional hallways were proposed to facilitate collaboration and create a sense of neighborhood within the school.

Participants were invited to share their preferences on design patterns using digital tools. Secure entry and safe community access were prioritized, along with welcoming arrival areas that offer clear sightlines and secure entry features. The idea of a central hub, or “heart of the school,” was discussed, with the cafeteria often serving as this community focal point. The integration of STEM, STEAM, and maker spaces was highlighted, supporting diverse educational approaches.

The meeting also addressed the need for outdoor connections and learning spaces, advocating for outdoor classrooms, courtyards, and informal gathering spaces to extend learning beyond traditional walls. The concept of biophilic design, incorporating natural materials and green spaces, was introduced to enhance the school’s environment. The idea of “anywhere anytime learning” was presented, supporting learning in various informal settings throughout the campus.

Concerns about projected student enrollment numbers were raised, as the proposed figures seemed small compared to current enrollment. A demographic and enrollment study was mentioned as part of the master plan process, with assurances that the planning team was aware of the discrepancy and would engage with the state to address the growing student population.