The committee’s primary focus was to address the overcrowding and space limitations faced by Chelmsford’s elementary schools. One topic was the potential shift from the traditional structure to a 4 through 6 grade model. This reconfiguration aims to alleviate space issues at the elementary level by redistributing student populations more evenly across the district. This model could also reduce the number of school transitions students experience, offering greater continuity in their education. However, concerns were raised about the scale and management of a 5 through 8 grade structure, which would result in a school larger than the current high school.

A comprehensive capacity analysis was presented, highlighting that the existing Biome Elementary School is undersized by approximately 18,000 square feet. The analysis revealed that removing fourth grade from Biome could decrease enrollment by 104 students, partially addressing the space shortfall. This finding supported the feasibility of the 4-6 configuration as a solution to overcrowding, potentially eliminating the need for extensive new constructions.

Further discussions explored conceptual design options for the Parker and Graniteville sites, considering various configurations for grades four through six and five through eight. Each option presented unique challenges and benefits. For instance, the Parker site proposal included a building less than 170,000 square feet, with construction spanning under three years. In contrast, the Graniteville site, requiring new construction due to the absence of existing structures, offered the chance to integrate views of the wetlands into the academic environment, thereby enhancing the learning experience.

The proposal for the Parker site also included the introduction of a 3D-printed model to visualize the space effectively. This model helped the committee and community members grasp the scale of the proposed buildings and assess design options, like the addition and renovation plans for Parker Middle School. These plans feature separate drop-off loops for buses and parents, multipurpose fields, and expanded dining facilities. The proposed fourth to sixth-grade configuration was estimated at 181,000 square feet, with a timeline of approximately four years for completion, whereas a 5 through 8 option would extend the facility to 272,000 square feet.

Parking logistics emerged as a concern, with plans indicating the need for additional spaces to support the growing staff and student population. The committee acknowledged that addressing logistical challenges would be essential as the project advanced.

Another topic was the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) submission process. The committee discussed the upcoming Preliminary Design Program (PDP) submission, a comprehensive document nearly 1,500 pages long, to be presented to the MSBA. This submission is important for securing state support and funding. The committee emphasized the necessity of review and understanding of the PDP’s contents to avoid delays in the approval process. To facilitate this, members proposed sharing the document electronically to ensure adequate review time before the January 15 meeting.

The committee also explored the possibility of incorporating geothermal energy solutions as part of the project’s sustainability initiatives. Geothermal systems, while requiring significant ground space, could offer long-term energy savings. The committee recognized the importance of conducting a comprehensive life cycle cost analysis to evaluate the feasibility and financial viability of geothermal installations.

As the project progresses, community engagement remains a priority. The committee plans to host public forums in February, March, and April to gather input from families and community members. These forums will align with the project’s timeline and incorporate feedback received from the MSBA.