Shawsheen Valley Technical High School has entered into the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process to modernize its aging school building, originally constructed in 1970. An initial part of the process requires the appropriation of funding for a feasibility study from the five communities Shawsheen serves.
The Select Board has voted to support Shawsheen Tech’s proposed $1.5 million feasibility study. Burlington’s share would be $165,737, based on its enrollment, and would be funded from free cash.
Shawsheen has formed a School Building Committee with representatives from its five-town district. The feasibility study will explore options including renovation, expansion, or a complete rebuild. The study will also assess educational programs, facility needs, and costs.
Discussions by the board highlighted the many strengths of Shawsheen Tech, including its vocational and trade-focused education, which is seen as “AI-proof” and vital for the future workforce. The school also has a successful athletic program, with multiple championship wins across various sports. Shawsheen’s cooperative education program allows students to gain real-world experience with local businesses.
The feasibility study funding will go before May Town Meeting. If approved, the feasibility study proposal will go before the MSBA in June, marking the next step in applying for state funding to modernize the school.
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